Beginner looking for to bike for commute
Hi. Sorry to bother everyone with a noob sort of question, but I am looking to make a smart choice for when I switch from a car commute, to a bike/train commute in a few weeks.
I have done this before with a cheap mongoose bike I bought from wal-mart but have found the bike wanting, and would like to get some better hardware for this. I plan to bike year round (which means through snow/slush in winter, rain rest of the year) and I don't want to spend a whole lot on the upgrade (800+). A friend pointed me towards cycle-cross bike's so I could in theory do some off trailing if needed, and definitely handle the snow without a real issue. But a good one looks to be more then I would like to spend, and the more I think about it I am not sure if that level of off-roading is needed for the occasional bad snow day in Chicago. After doing some research I came across the Priority classic 2.0 as a good priced bike, and with winter tires (a little extra cost) it should be comfy in the snow. My commute is about 2.7 miles each way according to google. I am curious what peoples experience is here. Is the priority bike a good pick for year round biking, or would I really be better off spending a little extra and getting a cycle-cross or some other bike? Thanks! |
Your Priority brand bikes and typical cyclocross bikes are very different beasts.
In many senses, the cyclocross bikes ares classic road bikes that can take larger tires which is often popular for commuters. Your Priority bikes all seem to have some kind of flat bar or moustache bar, and most, other than the Priority Continuum Onyx have 3 speed coaster brakes. https://www.prioritybicycles.com/pages/bicycles Assuming you don't have big hills, then just about any bike will do the 2.7 mile ride to work. Some people even do that on skateboards. Your priority bikes with the belt drive and 3 speed coaster brake appear to be well thought out. Although, personally I would have chosen front & rear brakes. Other options include scouring the used market for the "perfect bike" at a price you won't worry about it getting stolen. But, also keep in mind that the best deals on used bikes usually require significant tune-ups. Hybrids have similar upright riding postures. |
Yeah, I used to longboard/bike (depending on weather) a similar distance when I was in college, but in that case I put little thought into the bike. It was just there when the weather was too rough for the longboard. I don't necessarily plan to do the same here though. I plan to make my bike my primary so I want to pick out something good.
As for the brakes, the gotham (the one I would likely choose if I go priority) has both. |
You have to put some thought into riding in inclement weather, as well as road salt.
I assume Spring is on its way now, but by this fall, you might consider a vintage MTB for winter commuting, including getting studded tires. Or, walk, jog, or take the bus for that 2.7 miles if riding on the road isn't safe. It appears as if fenders are being sold as an accessory, as well as racks, and lights. Also available elsewhere. Oh, the company also is selling flat-free airless tires. I have them on one bike (Tannus brand, a bit narrower than they're using). I have mixed opinions about them, but they'd be great for a commute where you don't want to mess around with flats, or being forced to walk. However, don't plan on easily swapping airless tires and studded tires unless you get spare wheels (also a reason for a snow bike beater bike). |
A 29er mountain bike would work well
Not a long commute Comfortable, front shock, versatile, strongeframe , fits big tires & studs, Disc brakes for wet weather, Fenders available for most . |
The Priority will be fine. For year-round commuting in Chicago, you'll want to add fenders and lights. If you could swing a model with disc brakes, that would be a nice upgrade.
As far as Priority in general, I'm happy with the company's support and very happy with my Eight. |
I have the original Priority Classic 1.0. and agree with most of what others have said regarding it being a fine choice for a sub 3-mile commute. There are some things lacking in the Classic line that you might want to consider. Since I haven't ridden a Gotham edition, I don't know how much my experience translates or if they've improved upon any of my points.
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Thanks, that's all really helpful. You guys have given me a bit to think about.
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