Need Advice on "Custom" Commuter
11-23-11 | 12:15 AM
#26
Thread Starter
Old & Getting Older Racer
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,343
Likes: 12
From: SoCal
Bikes: Bicycle Transportation: 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric, 2019 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid
I like all of my bikes.
If you think that is clunky you should try it on a Schwinn Town & Country trike. The Milan is not clunky..
Seriously, I'm after fast and light commuting. Otherwise I might as well keep driving my Prius to work. <JK about driving the Prius.>IMHO, you won't go wrong with a cyclocross bike for commuting. The wider tires allow lower pressures that smooths out cracks and ruts in the pavement. It also allows for fitting even wider winter tires or tires with studs. Since you could fit wider tires and full wrap fenders on your Milano I agree with the others that it already is a perfect commuter... just needs lights.
Here is the commuter I use based off a Canondale CADDX (54 km roundtrip 3 times a week).
Here is the commuter I use based off a Canondale CADDX (54 km roundtrip 3 times a week).
What does the Milano weigh so that we can figure out is your reference for too heavy? Maybe you think it is clunky due to the geometry and you want a new bike with a shorter wheelbase? Help us out and let us know what you are striving for as you will continue to get remarks that you already have what you "need" and just "want" a new bike. I have no issues with you wanting another bike, as long as you know what makes the new bike useful in a different way. BTW, my slowest and heaviest bike *is* my main commuter as it has the IGH, fenders, dynamo light, puncture resistant tires, etc.
I currently own 6 bikes and several times a year I ride all six of them within a 7 day period. However, as I mentioned, after commuting 4-5 days a week during most of the 1980s I basically drive to work. I ride about 7,000 miles each year without commuting and I'm trying to further decrease my driving. I "only" drive about 8,000 miles per years and most of that is driving to races since my commute is so short.
It turns out I can get the CenterTrack system for a bit of a premium over the original Carbon Drive system. I think I can finish putting this together for about $1,300 out of pocket. Much cheaper than a boat and a bit cheaper than a complete bike with IGH from a builder. Still have to decide on bars, but I am now leaning towards drop bars and I have to look into some of the panniers that you've recommended.
Thanks everyone for your comments.
__________________
Thanks.
Cleave
"Real men still wear pink."
Visit my blog at https://cleavesblant.wordpress.com/
Lightning Velo Cycling Club: https://www.lightningvelo.org/
Learn about our Green Dream Home at https://www.lawville.org/
Thanks.
Cleave
"Real men still wear pink."
Visit my blog at https://cleavesblant.wordpress.com/
Lightning Velo Cycling Club: https://www.lightningvelo.org/
Learn about our Green Dream Home at https://www.lawville.org/
11-23-11 | 11:49 AM
#27
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 62
Likes: 0
From: Bellingham, WA
Bikes: Surly Big Dummy, Waltworks singlespeed 29er
Alright, I've got another suggestion then. While you're trying to buy your way out of sweating, how about taking some of that excess dough or one of those underused bikes and passing it on to someone who would actually appreciate it? How about Bicycle Aid for Africa at https://www.re-cycle.org/? After all, it's only because so many have so little that a fortunate few can stockpile high-end bicycles in their suburban garages.
11-23-11 | 12:05 PM
#28
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 1,664
Likes: 0
From: North County San Diego
For what it's worth I don't think this thread should turn into a "haves & have nots" thing. The OP is simply asking for advice and has specific requirements. I think most in this forum would agree that the two bikes he posted are perfect commuters but again he's asking about a specific drive train configuration and a set of panniers he can comfortably carry.
11-23-11 | 01:51 PM
#29
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 63
Likes: 0
From: Rowlett, TX
Bikes: Karate Monkey, Trucker Deluxe, Brompton, Pugsley, Trek Transport
I bicycle commute with my laptop daily and found the Topeak laptop bag is the best solution for me. Note I'm not affiliated with Topeak in any way. Another bicycle commuter at work noticed my set-up and now he has the same for his laptop. The following is a link to the bag on the Topeak site.
https://www.topeak.com/products/Bags/MTXOfficeBag
My normal commuter bikes (Surly Karate Monkey, Novara Strada) have the Topeak rack which makes taking the bag on/off quick and simple. I've also used the bag on my Cargo bike (Trek Transport) with a non-Topeak rack and some bungee straps. Amazingly the latch still functioned on the Cargo bike but needed the straps to stop the bag from wiggling. I've had a few opportunities to test the rain cover here in Texas and can report nothing inside the bag got wet including paper. It comes with a shoulder strap. I now use the bag to always carry my laptop independent of commuting by bike or car.
The downsides are it's a little pricey depending on where it's purchased (got mine at REI), and there's not a lot of room for other stuff such as a change of clothes or lunch. I end-up using a bungee net to hold my lunch bag and/or dry bag with change of clothes, on the top of the laptop bag when needed. The upside is I'm still the widest thing on the bike and the bag stays out of the wind as opposed to a normal pannier set-up.
https://www.topeak.com/products/Bags/MTXOfficeBag
My normal commuter bikes (Surly Karate Monkey, Novara Strada) have the Topeak rack which makes taking the bag on/off quick and simple. I've also used the bag on my Cargo bike (Trek Transport) with a non-Topeak rack and some bungee straps. Amazingly the latch still functioned on the Cargo bike but needed the straps to stop the bag from wiggling. I've had a few opportunities to test the rain cover here in Texas and can report nothing inside the bag got wet including paper. It comes with a shoulder strap. I now use the bag to always carry my laptop independent of commuting by bike or car.
The downsides are it's a little pricey depending on where it's purchased (got mine at REI), and there's not a lot of room for other stuff such as a change of clothes or lunch. I end-up using a bungee net to hold my lunch bag and/or dry bag with change of clothes, on the top of the laptop bag when needed. The upside is I'm still the widest thing on the bike and the bag stays out of the wind as opposed to a normal pannier set-up.
11-23-11 | 02:08 PM
#30
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 1,616
Likes: 183
From: Frankfurt, Germany
Bikes: Focus trash find commuter, Eddy Merckx Corsa, BP Stealth TT bike, Leader 720 TT bike, Boardman Comp Hybrid drop bar conversion, Quantec CX budget cyclocross build, SerottaNOS frameset ready to build up!
I'm currently putting together a lightweight commuter / flat bar roadbike. Granted, the carbon FF was in the parts bin, and lots of the drivetrain is coming off a wrecked and dumped MTB thing that a neighbour hauled out the bin for me, but it's going to come in at a lot less than $1,300. The frame is a recently powdercoated road frame I got for €25 on local pickup eBay.
It should be around €80 all in if it all comes together OK and I will have a fully functional +/- 9kg commuter bike.
Point being it's much more fun not to throw money at a project like this - at least for me.
Now, on topic, rather than panniers, I got a KlickFix rucksack with a saddle mount, and it is absolutely bloody marvellous, I can't recommend it highly enough really. Might be an option for you as you have a longish walk from bike park to office.
It should be around €80 all in if it all comes together OK and I will have a fully functional +/- 9kg commuter bike.
Point being it's much more fun not to throw money at a project like this - at least for me.
Now, on topic, rather than panniers, I got a KlickFix rucksack with a saddle mount, and it is absolutely bloody marvellous, I can't recommend it highly enough really. Might be an option for you as you have a longish walk from bike park to office.
11-24-11 | 05:17 AM
#32
aka Timi
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 3,601
Likes: 320
From: Gothenburg, Sweden
Bikes: Bianchi Lupo & Bianchi Volpe Disc: touring. Bianchi Volpe: commuting
11-25-11 | 05:46 AM
#33
Giftless Amateur
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 3,317
Likes: 843
From: MD / metro DC
Bikes: Cross-Check/Nexus commuter. Several others for various forms of play.
BS. Bike commuter <> poor. (that's "not equal" for the notationally challenged)
I thought we had transcended that. Which, imi, you have only tossed out there nicely enough, not flailed at with the prior sugmly offensive 99% silliness that mbryant52 floated in the punchbowl.
I thought we had transcended that. Which, imi, you have only tossed out there nicely enough, not flailed at with the prior sugmly offensive 99% silliness that mbryant52 floated in the punchbowl.
11-25-11 | 09:24 AM
#34
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 2,287
Likes: 15
From: the 904, Jax fl
I wish you luck, finding a light bike that will do what you want it to do.
I've tried many different light set ups, none seem to work the way I wanted it to.
That includes a full blown custom. Nice bike but it still came in as a 28 lb monster.
I ended up with a vintage sport touring type bike, with a good set of wheels!
I hope it all works out for you.
The ortlieb or caradice bags are both easy to use and work well.
Good luck
I've tried many different light set ups, none seem to work the way I wanted it to.
That includes a full blown custom. Nice bike but it still came in as a 28 lb monster.
I ended up with a vintage sport touring type bike, with a good set of wheels!
I hope it all works out for you.
The ortlieb or caradice bags are both easy to use and work well.
Good luck
11-25-11 | 05:33 PM
#35
Thread Starter
Old & Getting Older Racer
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,343
Likes: 12
From: SoCal
Bikes: Bicycle Transportation: 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric, 2019 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid
Alright, I've got another suggestion then. While you're trying to buy your way out of sweating, how about taking some of that excess dough or one of those underused bikes and passing it on to someone who would actually appreciate it? How about Bicycle Aid for Africa at https://www.re-cycle.org/? After all, it's only because so many have so little that a fortunate few can stockpile high-end bicycles in their suburban garages.
For what it's worth I don't think this thread should turn into a "haves & have nots" thing. The OP is simply asking for advice and has specific requirements. I think most in this forum would agree that the two bikes he posted are perfect commuters but again he's asking about a specific drive train configuration and a set of panniers he can comfortably carry.
I bicycle commute with my laptop daily and found the Topeak laptop bag is the best solution for me. Note I'm not affiliated with Topeak in any way. Another bicycle commuter at work noticed my set-up and now he has the same for his laptop. The following is a link to the bag on the Topeak site.
https://www.topeak.com/products/Bags/MTXOfficeBag
My normal commuter bikes (Surly Karate Monkey, Novara Strada) have the Topeak rack which makes taking the bag on/off quick and simple. I've also used the bag on my Cargo bike (Trek Transport) with a non-Topeak rack and some bungee straps. Amazingly the latch still functioned on the Cargo bike but needed the straps to stop the bag from wiggling. I've had a few opportunities to test the rain cover here in Texas and can report nothing inside the bag got wet including paper. It comes with a shoulder strap. I now use the bag to always carry my laptop independent of commuting by bike or car.
The downsides are it's a little pricey depending on where it's purchased (got mine at REI), and there's not a lot of room for other stuff such as a change of clothes or lunch. I end-up using a bungee net to hold my lunch bag and/or dry bag with change of clothes, on the top of the laptop bag when needed. The upside is I'm still the widest thing on the bike and the bag stays out of the wind as opposed to a normal pannier set-up.
https://www.topeak.com/products/Bags/MTXOfficeBag
My normal commuter bikes (Surly Karate Monkey, Novara Strada) have the Topeak rack which makes taking the bag on/off quick and simple. I've also used the bag on my Cargo bike (Trek Transport) with a non-Topeak rack and some bungee straps. Amazingly the latch still functioned on the Cargo bike but needed the straps to stop the bag from wiggling. I've had a few opportunities to test the rain cover here in Texas and can report nothing inside the bag got wet including paper. It comes with a shoulder strap. I now use the bag to always carry my laptop independent of commuting by bike or car.
The downsides are it's a little pricey depending on where it's purchased (got mine at REI), and there's not a lot of room for other stuff such as a change of clothes or lunch. I end-up using a bungee net to hold my lunch bag and/or dry bag with change of clothes, on the top of the laptop bag when needed. The upside is I'm still the widest thing on the bike and the bag stays out of the wind as opposed to a normal pannier set-up.
I'm currently putting together a lightweight commuter / flat bar roadbike. Granted, the carbon FF was in the parts bin, and lots of the drivetrain is coming off a wrecked and dumped MTB thing that a neighbour hauled out the bin for me, but it's going to come in at a lot less than $1,300. The frame is a recently powdercoated road frame I got for €25 on local pickup eBay.
It should be around €80 all in if it all comes together OK and I will have a fully functional +/- 9kg commuter bike.
Point being it's much more fun not to throw money at a project like this - at least for me.
Now, on topic, rather than panniers, I got a KlickFix rucksack with a saddle mount, and it is absolutely bloody marvellous, I can't recommend it highly enough really. Might be an option for you as you have a longish walk from bike park to office.
It should be around €80 all in if it all comes together OK and I will have a fully functional +/- 9kg commuter bike.
Point being it's much more fun not to throw money at a project like this - at least for me.
Now, on topic, rather than panniers, I got a KlickFix rucksack with a saddle mount, and it is absolutely bloody marvellous, I can't recommend it highly enough really. Might be an option for you as you have a longish walk from bike park to office.
__________________
Thanks.
Cleave
"Real men still wear pink."
Visit my blog at https://cleavesblant.wordpress.com/
Lightning Velo Cycling Club: https://www.lightningvelo.org/
Learn about our Green Dream Home at https://www.lawville.org/
Thanks.
Cleave
"Real men still wear pink."
Visit my blog at https://cleavesblant.wordpress.com/
Lightning Velo Cycling Club: https://www.lightningvelo.org/
Learn about our Green Dream Home at https://www.lawville.org/
11-25-11 | 05:40 PM
#36
Thread Starter
Old & Getting Older Racer
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,343
Likes: 12
From: SoCal
Bikes: Bicycle Transportation: 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric, 2019 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid
Okay...
I don't need more bikes but I'm always am interested in owning (to ride) more bikes. Given how long I've been involved with cycling, I think I'm pretty average with the number of bikes that I own. 
Don't worry, I've been on internet forums long enough to not be too offended by what people post. 
As a former regular commuter, it's interesting how commuting has evolved over the past 20 years.
If this bike doesn't work out I can always sell or donate it.
I've been looking at Ortlieb bags but I haven't seen Caradice.
BS. Bike commuter <> poor. (that's "not equal" for the notationally challenged)
I thought we had transcended that. Which, imi, you have only tossed out there nicely enough, not flailed at with the prior sugmly offensive 99% silliness that mbryant52 floated in the punchbowl.
I thought we had transcended that. Which, imi, you have only tossed out there nicely enough, not flailed at with the prior sugmly offensive 99% silliness that mbryant52 floated in the punchbowl.
As a former regular commuter, it's interesting how commuting has evolved over the past 20 years.I wish you luck, finding a light bike that will do what you want it to do.
I've tried many different light set ups, none seem to work the way I wanted it to.
That includes a full blown custom. Nice bike but it still came in as a 28 lb monster.
I ended up with a vintage sport touring type bike, with a good set of wheels!
I hope it all works out for you.
The ortlieb or caradice bags are both easy to use and work well.
Good luck
I've tried many different light set ups, none seem to work the way I wanted it to.
That includes a full blown custom. Nice bike but it still came in as a 28 lb monster.
I ended up with a vintage sport touring type bike, with a good set of wheels!
I hope it all works out for you.
The ortlieb or caradice bags are both easy to use and work well.
Good luck
I've been looking at Ortlieb bags but I haven't seen Caradice.
__________________
Thanks.
Cleave
"Real men still wear pink."
Visit my blog at https://cleavesblant.wordpress.com/
Lightning Velo Cycling Club: https://www.lightningvelo.org/
Learn about our Green Dream Home at https://www.lawville.org/
Thanks.
Cleave
"Real men still wear pink."
Visit my blog at https://cleavesblant.wordpress.com/
Lightning Velo Cycling Club: https://www.lightningvelo.org/
Learn about our Green Dream Home at https://www.lawville.org/
Last edited by Cleave; 11-25-11 at 08:27 PM.
11-25-11 | 06:27 PM
#37
commuter and barbarian
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,494
Likes: 3
From: Potomac, MT, USA
I use a Caradice Nelson Longflap, which hangs from the saddle in back and which I like. But I've never tried to transport a laptop in it and I'm not sure it would work. I'm sure you could fit one into it, but I don't know how much room you'd have left for your clothes and other stuff.
I think it's nobody's business but your own if you build another, buy another or ride what you already have. That said, I think you've got a fine commuter already. You say it's heavy and you'd sweat, but I guess I don't understand your reasoning that you don't want to take a shower for a six mile ride. Don't you shower anyway? What difference does it make if you shower after you get to work versus before you leave for work?
I think it's nobody's business but your own if you build another, buy another or ride what you already have. That said, I think you've got a fine commuter already. You say it's heavy and you'd sweat, but I guess I don't understand your reasoning that you don't want to take a shower for a six mile ride. Don't you shower anyway? What difference does it make if you shower after you get to work versus before you leave for work?
11-28-11 | 10:38 AM
#38
Senior Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 8,896
Likes: 7
From: Raleigh, NC
Bikes: Waterford RST-22, Bob Jackson World Tour, Ritchey Breakaway Cross, Soma Saga, De Bernardi SL, Specialized Sequoia
You might want to read this review if you are still thinking about getting a IGH/ belt drive bike for commuting:
https://forums.roadbikereview.com/com...bs-267049.html
https://forums.roadbikereview.com/com...bs-267049.html
11-28-11 | 11:37 AM
#39
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 6,977
Likes: 191
From: Washington, DC
You might want to read this review if you are still thinking about getting a IGH/ belt drive bike for commuting:
https://forums.roadbikereview.com/com...bs-267049.html
https://forums.roadbikereview.com/com...bs-267049.html
11-28-11 | 12:52 PM
#40
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 1,664
Likes: 0
From: North County San Diego
Unless I am reading it incorrectly, tho OP is asking about a single speed belt drive system.
Hi All,....
After searching the forums and the rest of the internet, I want to use the Gates CenterTrack belt drive system with a single speed. The Nexus 8-speed on my Milano works well enough but since my commute is fairly flat, I am thinking the simplicity of a single-speed would be better overall especially if I have a rear flat. BTW, I have too much bike maintenance to do in general so I want this bike to be as maintenance-free as possible so that's why I want a belt-drive. Also, since CenterTrack parts are very hard to get are the original Carbon Drive components OK for single-speed applications? More thoughts?....
After searching the forums and the rest of the internet, I want to use the Gates CenterTrack belt drive system with a single speed. The Nexus 8-speed on my Milano works well enough but since my commute is fairly flat, I am thinking the simplicity of a single-speed would be better overall especially if I have a rear flat. BTW, I have too much bike maintenance to do in general so I want this bike to be as maintenance-free as possible so that's why I want a belt-drive. Also, since CenterTrack parts are very hard to get are the original Carbon Drive components OK for single-speed applications? More thoughts?....
11-28-11 | 01:20 PM
#41
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 6,977
Likes: 191
From: Washington, DC
If the OP truly wants a single speed bike, just build up a standard single speed with a chain. No need to reinvent the wheel. I thought the guy was looking for low maintenance and high reliability, and didn't care that much about cost.
11-30-11 | 09:50 AM
#42
Thread Starter
Old & Getting Older Racer
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,343
Likes: 12
From: SoCal
Bikes: Bicycle Transportation: 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric, 2019 Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid
I use a Caradice Nelson Longflap, which hangs from the saddle in back and which I like. But I've never tried to transport a laptop in it and I'm not sure it would work. I'm sure you could fit one into it, but I don't know how much room you'd have left for your clothes and other stuff.
I think it's nobody's business but your own if you build another, buy another or ride what you already have. That said, I think you've got a fine commuter already. You say it's heavy and you'd sweat, but I guess I don't understand your reasoning that you don't want to take a shower for a six mile ride. Don't you shower anyway? What difference does it make if you shower after you get to work versus before you leave for work?
I think it's nobody's business but your own if you build another, buy another or ride what you already have. That said, I think you've got a fine commuter already. You say it's heavy and you'd sweat, but I guess I don't understand your reasoning that you don't want to take a shower for a six mile ride. Don't you shower anyway? What difference does it make if you shower after you get to work versus before you leave for work?
You might want to read this review if you are still thinking about getting a IGH/ belt drive bike for commuting:
https://forums.roadbikereview.com/com...bs-267049.html
https://forums.roadbikereview.com/com...bs-267049.html
I agree that the belt drive is relatively untested but the comments I've seen on the CenterTrack belt system indicate that it is a marked improvement over the original Carbon Drive system.Any drivetrain is single speed unless you shift it.
If the OP truly wants a single speed bike, just build up a standard single speed with a chain. No need to reinvent the wheel. I thought the guy was looking for low maintenance and high reliability, and didn't care that much about cost.
If the OP truly wants a single speed bike, just build up a standard single speed with a chain. No need to reinvent the wheel. I thought the guy was looking for low maintenance and high reliability, and didn't care that much about cost.
The chain on my track bike stays clean and requires minimal maintenance because I train at an indoor track (over 1,000 miles each year). All of my other chains require regular maintenance since living in urban, coastal SoCal there is a lot of salty sea air and very gritty roads. IF the promise of the belt works out, I won't have to do anything to the drivetrain for a very long time.
__________________
Thanks.
Cleave
"Real men still wear pink."
Visit my blog at https://cleavesblant.wordpress.com/
Lightning Velo Cycling Club: https://www.lightningvelo.org/
Learn about our Green Dream Home at https://www.lawville.org/
Thanks.
Cleave
"Real men still wear pink."
Visit my blog at https://cleavesblant.wordpress.com/
Lightning Velo Cycling Club: https://www.lightningvelo.org/
Learn about our Green Dream Home at https://www.lawville.org/
11-30-11 | 10:39 AM
#43
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 243
Likes: 0
From: Northern California
Bikes: 2010 jamis commuter 2, Schwinn Roxie w/ springer front end, Schwinn OCC Chopper ss, Trek 4100 mtb,Trek ZX 6000 mtb
Hi All,
First time posting in this sub forum. A little background: I am basically a bike racer with 35 years in the sport. When I was in my 20s during the 1980s I commuted for about a decade on my race bike with tubular tires and a backpack. Job location, kids, and laptop computers caused me to stop commuting regularly. Something had to give and racing came first.
Now that the kids are older (as am I), I am looking to commute by bike 3 days a week (2 minimum). I have a bunch of bikes, including these two:
The Milano is my errands bike and any time I ride to work (just a few times each year) I use it. The Roger is my rain bike for winter training.
I know a lot of you hardcore commuters will think I'm crazy or have too much disposable income, but I have gotten "permission" to build a commuter bike.
(Why not commute on either of those bikes? The Milano is just too heavy and clunky for me for a 6 mile each way commute with all of my work stuff. I'm not interested in putting a rack and other accoutrements on the Roger for commuting. In fact, I take the fenders off of it during the summer when I need a change of pace for training.)
After doing a fair amount of research, I have settled on a Spot frame, The Proletariat (https://www.oneghost.net/One_Ghost_In...OLETARIAT.html). I'll be using Avid BB7 road disc brakes and a belt drive. Other than that, I'm looking for some practical advice on other choices.
I have Soma Sparrow bars on the Milano and I like them MUCH better than typical flat bars (which hurt my wrists). Since my commute is fairly urban, bad roads and bad traffic, I think that the Sparrow bars would work better than drop bars with a bike with panniers with a fair amount of stuff in them. Thoughts?
After searching the forums and the rest of the internet, I want to use the Gates CenterTrack belt drive system with a single speed. The Nexus 8-speed on my Milano works well enough but since my commute is fairly flat, I am thinking the simplicity of a single-speed would be better overall especially if I have a rear flat. BTW, I have too much bike maintenance to do in general so I want this bike to be as maintenance-free as possible so that's why I want a belt-drive. Also, since CenterTrack parts are very hard to get are the original Carbon Drive components OK for single-speed applications? More thoughts?
Finally, the topic of panniers. I have some touring panniers that I've had since the 1980s. They work well but they are a major chore to put on and off the bike. Additionally, I'll have to CARRY the panniers about the equivalent of two city blocks as I work at a large factory and bike parking is just outside the gate near a guard location. Some of the panniers that convert to backpacks look interesting but shoulder straps would probably work fine. Which brand and model of pannier might work well for me?
TIA for any practical advice you can provide.
First time posting in this sub forum. A little background: I am basically a bike racer with 35 years in the sport. When I was in my 20s during the 1980s I commuted for about a decade on my race bike with tubular tires and a backpack. Job location, kids, and laptop computers caused me to stop commuting regularly. Something had to give and racing came first.
Now that the kids are older (as am I), I am looking to commute by bike 3 days a week (2 minimum). I have a bunch of bikes, including these two:
The Milano is my errands bike and any time I ride to work (just a few times each year) I use it. The Roger is my rain bike for winter training.
I know a lot of you hardcore commuters will think I'm crazy or have too much disposable income, but I have gotten "permission" to build a commuter bike.
(Why not commute on either of those bikes? The Milano is just too heavy and clunky for me for a 6 mile each way commute with all of my work stuff. I'm not interested in putting a rack and other accoutrements on the Roger for commuting. In fact, I take the fenders off of it during the summer when I need a change of pace for training.)
After doing a fair amount of research, I have settled on a Spot frame, The Proletariat (https://www.oneghost.net/One_Ghost_In...OLETARIAT.html). I'll be using Avid BB7 road disc brakes and a belt drive. Other than that, I'm looking for some practical advice on other choices.
I have Soma Sparrow bars on the Milano and I like them MUCH better than typical flat bars (which hurt my wrists). Since my commute is fairly urban, bad roads and bad traffic, I think that the Sparrow bars would work better than drop bars with a bike with panniers with a fair amount of stuff in them. Thoughts?
After searching the forums and the rest of the internet, I want to use the Gates CenterTrack belt drive system with a single speed. The Nexus 8-speed on my Milano works well enough but since my commute is fairly flat, I am thinking the simplicity of a single-speed would be better overall especially if I have a rear flat. BTW, I have too much bike maintenance to do in general so I want this bike to be as maintenance-free as possible so that's why I want a belt-drive. Also, since CenterTrack parts are very hard to get are the original Carbon Drive components OK for single-speed applications? More thoughts?
Finally, the topic of panniers. I have some touring panniers that I've had since the 1980s. They work well but they are a major chore to put on and off the bike. Additionally, I'll have to CARRY the panniers about the equivalent of two city blocks as I work at a large factory and bike parking is just outside the gate near a guard location. Some of the panniers that convert to backpacks look interesting but shoulder straps would probably work fine. Which brand and model of pannier might work well for me?
TIA for any practical advice you can provide.
Last edited by nutcase; 11-30-11 at 03:37 PM. Reason: sp
11-30-11 | 12:30 PM
#44
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 4,599
Likes: 158
From: Santa Fe, NM
Bikes: Vassago Moosknuckle Ti 29+ XTR, 90's Merckx Corsa-01 9sp Record, PROJECT: 1954 Frejus SuperCorsa
For a lighter/faster setup (typically Summertime for me) I actually prefer wearing a backpack to the tail-wagging sensation that I get with a saddle/post bag. Again, this is largely due to the fact that I'm 6'2+ and on such setups the weight is way out from the axis of rotation, making for a very unpleasant dynamic.
If you are on a smaller frame (say, 56cm or smaller) then this may not be nearly as much of an issue.
11-30-11 | 12:45 PM
#45
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 4,599
Likes: 158
From: Santa Fe, NM
Bikes: Vassago Moosknuckle Ti 29+ XTR, 90's Merckx Corsa-01 9sp Record, PROJECT: 1954 Frejus SuperCorsa
You might want to read this review if you are still thinking about getting a IGH/ belt drive bike for commuting:
https://forums.roadbikereview.com/com...bs-267049.html
https://forums.roadbikereview.com/com...bs-267049.html
@alans-
I just want to clarify (as one of he "some" that has used belt drive and chosen to go back to the chain) that I personally feel that the belt is a pretty brilliant system with quite a bit of potential, particularly for SS applications.
I do believe the jury is still out for the combination of IGH with belt. I personally found the "feel" of the chain with an IGH to be much better than the belt/IGH, and I think the tension was the primary factor.
If I lived in a climate that was really salty or slushy, I would probably end up going with a belt, as I feel the belt is far superior to a chain in these conditions.
11-30-11 | 03:04 PM
#46
aka Timi
Joined: Feb 2009
Posts: 3,601
Likes: 320
From: Gothenburg, Sweden
Bikes: Bianchi Lupo & Bianchi Volpe Disc: touring. Bianchi Volpe: commuting
BS. Bike commuter <> poor. (that's "not equal" for the notationally challenged)
I thought we had transcended that. Which, imi, you have only tossed out there nicely enough, not flailed at with the prior sugmly offensive 99% silliness that mbryant52 floated in the punchbowl.
I thought we had transcended that. Which, imi, you have only tossed out there nicely enough, not flailed at with the prior sugmly offensive 99% silliness that mbryant52 floated in the punchbowl.
Last edited by imi; 11-30-11 at 03:10 PM.
11-30-11 | 03:23 PM
#47
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 243
Likes: 0
From: Northern California
Bikes: 2010 jamis commuter 2, Schwinn Roxie w/ springer front end, Schwinn OCC Chopper ss, Trek 4100 mtb,Trek ZX 6000 mtb
IMHO, you won't go wrong with a cyclocross bike for commuting. The wider tires allow lower pressures that smooths out cracks and ruts in the pavement. It also allows for fitting even wider winter tires or tires with studs. Since you could fit wider tires and full wrap fenders on your Milano I agree with the others that it already is a perfect commuter... just needs lights.
Here is the commuter I use based off a Canondale CADDX (54 km roundtrip 3 times a week).
Here is the commuter I use based off a Canondale CADDX (54 km roundtrip 3 times a week).
11-30-11 | 03:30 PM
#48
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 6,977
Likes: 191
From: Washington, DC
Sorry there sicbob if my quip about "commuters being per definition poor" caused offense. My poor attempt at humour was a reflection on all commuting (not just bike commuters) as in, "if we were rich we wouldn't need to work, ergo we wouldn't commute..." That was all, and I apologize.
11-30-11 | 03:43 PM
#49
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 243
Likes: 0
From: Northern California
Bikes: 2010 jamis commuter 2, Schwinn Roxie w/ springer front end, Schwinn OCC Chopper ss, Trek 4100 mtb,Trek ZX 6000 mtb
Hi All,
First time posting in this sub forum. A little background: I am basically a bike racer with 35 years in the sport. When I was in my 20s during the 1980s I commuted for about a decade on my race bike with tubular tires and a backpack. Job location, kids, and laptop computers caused me to stop commuting regularly. Something had to give and racing came first.
Now that the kids are older (as am I), I am looking to commute by bike 3 days a week (2 minimum). I have a bunch of bikes, including these two:
The Milano is my errands bike and any time I ride to work (just a few times each year) I use it. The Roger is my rain bike for winter training.
I know a lot of you hardcore commuters will think I'm crazy or have too much disposable income, but I have gotten "permission" to build a commuter bike.
(Why not commute on either of those bikes? The Milano is just too heavy and clunky for me for a 6 mile each way commute with all of my work stuff. I'm not interested in putting a rack and other accoutrements on the Roger for commuting. In fact, I take the fenders off of it during the summer when I need a change of pace for training.)
After doing a fair amount of research, I have settled on a Spot frame, The Proletariat (https://www.oneghost.net/One_Ghost_In...OLETARIAT.html). I'll be using Avid BB7 road disc brakes and a belt drive. Other than that, I'm looking for some practical advice on other choices.
I have Soma Sparrow bars on the Milano and I like them MUCH better than typical flat bars (which hurt my wrists). Since my commute is fairly urban, bad roads and bad traffic, I think that the Sparrow bars would work better than drop bars with a bike with panniers with a fair amount of stuff in them. Thoughts?
After searching the forums and the rest of the internet, I want to use the Gates CenterTrack belt drive system with a single speed. The Nexus 8-speed on my Milano works well enough but since my commute is fairly flat, I am thinking the simplicity of a single-speed would be better overall especially if I have a rear flat. BTW, I have too much bike maintenance to do in general so I want this bike to be as maintenance-free as possible so that's why I want a belt-drive. Also, since CenterTrack parts are very hard to get are the original Carbon Drive components OK for single-speed applications? More thoughts?
Finally, the topic of panniers. I have some touring panniers that I've had since the 1980s. They work well but they are a major chore to put on and off the bike. Additionally, I'll have to CARRY the panniers about the equivalent of two city blocks as I work at a large factory and bike parking is just outside the gate near a guard location. Some of the panniers that convert to backpacks look interesting but shoulder straps would probably work fine. Which brand and model of pannier might work well for me?
TIA for any practical advice you can provide.
First time posting in this sub forum. A little background: I am basically a bike racer with 35 years in the sport. When I was in my 20s during the 1980s I commuted for about a decade on my race bike with tubular tires and a backpack. Job location, kids, and laptop computers caused me to stop commuting regularly. Something had to give and racing came first.
Now that the kids are older (as am I), I am looking to commute by bike 3 days a week (2 minimum). I have a bunch of bikes, including these two:
The Milano is my errands bike and any time I ride to work (just a few times each year) I use it. The Roger is my rain bike for winter training.
I know a lot of you hardcore commuters will think I'm crazy or have too much disposable income, but I have gotten "permission" to build a commuter bike.
(Why not commute on either of those bikes? The Milano is just too heavy and clunky for me for a 6 mile each way commute with all of my work stuff. I'm not interested in putting a rack and other accoutrements on the Roger for commuting. In fact, I take the fenders off of it during the summer when I need a change of pace for training.)
After doing a fair amount of research, I have settled on a Spot frame, The Proletariat (https://www.oneghost.net/One_Ghost_In...OLETARIAT.html). I'll be using Avid BB7 road disc brakes and a belt drive. Other than that, I'm looking for some practical advice on other choices.
I have Soma Sparrow bars on the Milano and I like them MUCH better than typical flat bars (which hurt my wrists). Since my commute is fairly urban, bad roads and bad traffic, I think that the Sparrow bars would work better than drop bars with a bike with panniers with a fair amount of stuff in them. Thoughts?
After searching the forums and the rest of the internet, I want to use the Gates CenterTrack belt drive system with a single speed. The Nexus 8-speed on my Milano works well enough but since my commute is fairly flat, I am thinking the simplicity of a single-speed would be better overall especially if I have a rear flat. BTW, I have too much bike maintenance to do in general so I want this bike to be as maintenance-free as possible so that's why I want a belt-drive. Also, since CenterTrack parts are very hard to get are the original Carbon Drive components OK for single-speed applications? More thoughts?
Finally, the topic of panniers. I have some touring panniers that I've had since the 1980s. They work well but they are a major chore to put on and off the bike. Additionally, I'll have to CARRY the panniers about the equivalent of two city blocks as I work at a large factory and bike parking is just outside the gate near a guard location. Some of the panniers that convert to backpacks look interesting but shoulder straps would probably work fine. Which brand and model of pannier might work well for me?
TIA for any practical advice you can provide.
tell me if you could please how these bars work for you. My Jamis 2 has a flat bar and I also suffer from wrist pain and numbing of the fingers. If these bars somehow relieve the pain ,I'm all in.
11-30-11 | 04:33 PM
#50
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 736
Likes: 1
I must be doing something wrong when I type as I thought I clearly wrote that I'm building a single-speed. I agree that the belt drive is relatively untested but the comments I've seen on the CenterTrack belt system indicate that it is a marked improvement over the original Carbon Drive system.
Thank you!
Umm, yes, looking for low maintenance and high reliability and cost is a lesser consideration. Maybe in the 35+ years that I've been riding, racing, and the 10 years that I commuted, I was improperly lubing my chains. In my experience, chains are the most maintenance intensive part of a bicycle.
The chain on my track bike stays clean and requires minimal maintenance because I train at an indoor track (over 1,000 miles each year). All of my other chains require regular maintenance since living in urban, coastal SoCal there is a lot of salty sea air and very gritty roads. IF the promise of the belt works out, I won't have to do anything to the drivetrain for a very long time.
I agree that the belt drive is relatively untested but the comments I've seen on the CenterTrack belt system indicate that it is a marked improvement over the original Carbon Drive system.Thank you!
Umm, yes, looking for low maintenance and high reliability and cost is a lesser consideration. Maybe in the 35+ years that I've been riding, racing, and the 10 years that I commuted, I was improperly lubing my chains. In my experience, chains are the most maintenance intensive part of a bicycle.
The chain on my track bike stays clean and requires minimal maintenance because I train at an indoor track (over 1,000 miles each year). All of my other chains require regular maintenance since living in urban, coastal SoCal there is a lot of salty sea air and very gritty roads. IF the promise of the belt works out, I won't have to do anything to the drivetrain for a very long time.
Last edited by daveF; 11-30-11 at 05:37 PM.