need new commuter bike

andrewf75

elverson wrote: »

If you're going to spend that much you may as well go for either a Decathlon road bike (Triban range) or a last-season Specialized hybrid if you can get one.

I like the Triban but I use a child seat to take my son to nursery on the back and I think for that I prefer the more upright position of this style rather than a road bike
If it wasn't for that I'd probably go for the Triban. Does that view make sense?

fred246

Three speed hubs are pretty standard in Holland where it is flat. One of my fleet has a three speed hub. They are good but you have to be prepared to stand up to pedal up a hill. My issue with them is the whole concept of a box of small springs, pawls etc surrounded by a wheel. It's OK when they work. If you can't fix them yourself you probably have to pay a large labour charge to fix them or a big bill to replace it with wheel rebuilding costs. I have another bike which I prefer which is like the Bobbin Noodle. Single chainring at the front with 8 speed derailleur. It's light, easy to maintain but still not great at steep hills.

andrewf75

Leaning towards this one now
https://www.decathlon.co.uk/riverside-900-hybrid-bike-id_8379018.html

Johnmcl7

I'm not convinced about a suspension fork for that sort of bike as they add cost, weight and complexity but not much benefit on the road nor really off road either. I ride a variety of bikes (rigid, front suspension, full suspension and tyre widths from narrow road tyres to massive fat tyres) and I find suspension forks are great for absorbing impacts when riding drops or jumps but not so great at smoothing out rough surfaces. For that I prefer a wider tyre which can be run a bit softer.

If you are planning any amount of technical off road riding you'd be better with a cheap hardtail mountain bike then put slicker tyres on it for road riding. Otherwise I'd stick with a rigid fork.

John

andrewf75

Thanks, although too late as I've ordered it now.
Suspension fork was a downside for me, as you say pointless unless doing proper off-road, which the bike isn't suitable for anyway. But still thought it was the best bike for the money.

Richard53

esuhl wrote: »

What is it that takes so long?

I'm enjoying what I am doing