Citizen Gotham2 vs Downtube Nova
 

Both bikes are similarly spec'ed and priced, but there are very few reviews on the Gotham2. On a high level:


Gotham2
Weight: 25lbs
Folded Size: 33" x 11" x 24.5"
Chainwheel: 48T
Cassette Min/Max: 14T/34T

Nova
Weight: 24lbs
Folded Size: ??? (I couldn't find this anywhere)
Chainwheel: 46T
Cassette Min/Max: 14T/28T

The shipped price of both bikes is about the same, and the major components look like they're about the same quality (I'm a bike noob, so please correct me if this is untrue).

So, what does this come down to? Nova 1lb lighter, Gotham2 better geared?

I have a Downtube and a Citizen Bike.
I say go Nova.
It may be my next folder.

If this counts, the Nova has an adjustable handle-post, while the Gotham2 has a higher weight limit, 2 different frame sizes, and better stock gearing.

It really boils down to personal preference. If I were in the market, my personal choice would be the G2 I like the looks of the G2's frame better. It's just cooler IMHO, but your view about that could be different.

Hm.. but you're just comparing brands instead of the specific models. Unless you have both the G2 and the Nova, I don't think it will be an accurate comparison.

I didn't realize the Gotham2 doesn't have an adjustable handle-post--this means I can't adjust the height of the handlebars? That might be a deal-breaker...

If I were you I would go with Nova.

Nova.

For those who say "Nova" -- I'd like to hear your opinions on *why* ?

Ed has a good justification on why he likes the G2, while those in favor of Nova just say so without much explanation...

Just comparing quality of the two that I do have.

Would you mind sharing which models of each brand you have? Just wanna make sure we're not comparing Toyota Yarises to Honda Accords here...

Just comparing what I consider to be a quality/design issue.
The Citizen Bike, as I remember cost about $30 more than the 8H.

CB Barcelona and DT 8H.

I posted a review and follow up of the Barcelona.
The problem on this Barcelona is in the frame hinge and hinge lock system.

I'm thinking DT is moving in the right direction on the Nova with
the newer (for Downtube) frame hinge/hinge lock.
It's what makes these things folders.

Why the Nova?

More adjustable on the handlebar. That is a big deal for posture or different riders using the same bike.

More review history on Downtube

I've had good experience with Downtube bikes. It's close but the Nova edges it. They are both nice bikes at the pricing point and worthy rivals.

Neither distinguishes themselves on the warranty.

Front derailleur hanger

Can accept a non-proprietary rear rack.

Handlebar height adjustment

Looks better, IMO.

Those are good points to consider. I had forgotten how customizable the Nova is said to be.

The Nova has a stem adjuster and the handle bars move up or down, the Gotham2 the stem is fixed but the handle bars are adjustable. This allows for more variation on the Nova.

I've been looking at both bikes also and this has been the factor that's swaying me towards the Nova. I don't really need a folder but it could come in handy when traveling. And when the kids are home and we need an extra bike.

Here's for a little encouragement.

http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/a...5/IMG_4271.jpg

:)

DVC45 Nice shot!!


fusilierdan, yes that does give more adjustability to the Nova, but also seems
to be the source of noise and flex on my Downtube.

Thanks guys, these are all excellent points!

I'm still a little confused about how the handlebars on the Gotham2 are adjustable--is the height adjustable? If so, how? If not, what's adjustable?

From the pictures on Citizenbike.Com, it seems that the Gotham2 doesn't have an adjustable handle post. The handlebars however can probably be rotated on the stem to get an optimized angle for your hands.

The only advantage I see from the Gotham2's non adjustable handle post is a stronger, less flexible stem. The bike looks like it was built to withstand aggressive, vigorous riding that is common in an urban or city environment.

http://www.truebicycles.com/contents/en-us/p180.html Another DT Nova?

edwong3, I think the handlebar post on the Gotham is similar to what is on our Barcelona.
Citizen Bike's web site shows one of those multi adjustable ones but this one is not
adjustable. It better fits the style of the Barcelona. At least to me, it has a much sturdier
feel, tho I'm sure both are adequate.

This was mentioned a while back in another thread (post #172):

http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...Nova-279/page7

It looks like its status is still "coming soon" so I wonder if they will ever actually sell the bike.

Well, I decided to contact Citizenbike directly and ask about the G2 handlebars and this is their response:

Not sure what the alternate handlebar looks like or does to the specs (weight), but apparently, it is available.

Anyhow, I guess it's immaterial at this point. I decided to order the Downtube Nova (two of them actually). Hopefully, they'll live up to all the good things people have said about them.

yes. that's a good choice actually.

Hi all....just beginning to research folders, came across this thread and have a question. I know these have folding pedals. I'm assuming I can replace those easy enough with a pedal of my choice?

DVC45--

this is a great pic of your sweet looking bike! do you have any pics of it folded? do you find these handlebars make it tighter? are these lighter? i'm thinking of getting some like these for mine. thanks!