Beckpatch

Hi all,

I'm a 51-year old, reasonably fit newbie man (new to cycling, not manhood) looking to buy a bike to commute to work, and the occasional recreational cycle. I'm in Vancouver where it's hilly and wet, though I'd be taking transit on really wet days. The commute is about 10km each way (6.2 miles), downhill going, uphill returning. I've been doing it on my old Raleigh Superbe three-speed, but am now ready for some newer technology. I'll keep the bike (sentimental reasons - belonged to my dog - long story), and will still commute on wetter days with it (very good fenders and chain guard), but am looking at buying a 2011 Kona Phd: https://2011.konaworld.com/bike.cfm?content=phd.

I'm 5'9", fairly proportionate (not sure of my inseam) and weigh 160lbs. I think I would take a 53cm frame, (just under 21"). Depending on the size/availability, I think it will cost between $1000 and $1300 (am I allowed to quote prices here?). My commute will be on almost exclusively paved roads.

Saw a 2007 Jamis Coda Elite on Craigslist for $600. Would love to get it, but it is a 21.5" frame, and likely too large for me. Can't seem to find Jamis here - no dedicated dealers? Other possibilities I've researched are Kona Dr. Dew, and the Specialized Sirrus line. Have also been using my sister-in-law's Trek FX 7.2, and the 40 year difference in technology between it and my old Raleigh is phenomenal. But I find the bike harder on my hands and butt than my comfy Raleigh, despite the old technology.

I know, I know - need to get out and ride some bikes to really decide. I did try the Phd last fall, and really liked it. Am going to try it again this weekend, but jumping the gun here to tap the expertise and experience of people on this forum. Any thoughts are much appreciated.

DocsDad

The Kona looks nice. I am 48 and recently bought the Trek 7.2 after riding a mountain bike for years. I now have a rack and panniers so I can commute with work clothes, lunch etc. Next week I will be slapping some fenders on it too. They are cheap and it might be something to consider for your new bike as you might like the Kona so much that you won't want to ride the other on rainy days. LOL

Enjoy

Beckpatch

Thanks, DocsDad. Will certainly consider some fenders.

SHOFINE

I'm 5'91/2" and have the 53cm 2011 Dr. Fine...love the ride and quite impressed with the quality of the bike.

tim24k

Beckpatch do you live in Vancouver, WA or Vancouver, BC ?

Have a good look at the Globe bike line made by Specialized. I have a Globe Sport Disc and a Globe City 7 that has been working out well for me in commuting. I have a twenty mile a day commute in Vancouver and yes a good set of fenders are a must!

a1penguin

I like the specs on that Kona PhD. It looks more like a flat bar road bike than other flat bar bikes I've seen. It has 105 components which are the line of components found on road bikes and are quality level components that will last a lifetime. From the picture, the geometry looks pretty aggressive too; the bars are lower than the seat. I agree with the others recommendations to get out and test ride some bikes; you'll find what you like and don't like. Your price range will buy you a pretty nice drop bar road bike and it at the high end of the scale in the hybrid world.

You can get a smoother ride if you select wider tires and lower the tire pressure a bit. Seats are subjective and it can take a while to adjust to new seat. I recommend gloves with gel pads to also help dampen some of the road vibrations.

Beckpatch

Thanks everyone. I did buy the Kona Phd and love it! Such a massive leap in technology from my old Raleigh. Tim24k, I am in B.C. I did google the Globe bikes but kept finding the net flooded with info about recalls for certain models.

a1penguin

Good choice Beckpatch! Any bike that you enjoy riding will lead to more time out there enjoying the ride and the great views.