Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Gecko on February 27, 2014 at 1:53pm

Everyone has a different opinion on what constitutes their "best" commuter bike.  They also have (sometimes rabid) opinions on what brands & shops are good or not, what type of bike is best, etc. etc. etc. 

You have to think about what things about your current bike you don't like.

- Is it too heavy?

- Do you like or dislike the handling?

- Do the brakes and tires work well in all kinds of weather?

- Is it relatively "theft-resistant"?  i.e. do you have locking skewers, seatpost, etc.?

- Do you want more hand positions for longer rides?

- Do you like to be able to coast?

- Do you like having more than one gear choice?

These are all things to consider when choosing your "next bike".  If the riding you'll be doing with the new bike won't be substantially different than how you ride right now with the old bike, you'll probably end up with a very similar bike to what you have right now.  If that is the case, does it really make sense to just "upgrade" for the sake of upgrading?  The Cirrus is not a terrible bike.

Also, you say you're a commuter but what's your big thing against fenders?  They solve more problems than they create, IMHO.  Same with panniers - they're much easier to deal with IMHO than a backpack.

Lastly, I'll just throw up my opinions and reasoning on why I ride what I ride in the city.  My bike is a modified cyclocross bike because I like the frame geometry, it's cromoly steel so it's light, comfortable and efficient, yet stout enough to take a beating, and cyclocross bikes have V-brake mounts that normal road bikes do not.  It has fenders because they keep the road spray very minimized.  It has mountain bike V-brakes because I like to stop quickly and reliably.  It has mountain bike flat handlebars because I prefer that riding position, and I like the brake levers being easy to reach.  It's a single speed freewheel because Chicago's relatively flat, and it's a simple, reliable system that needs little maintenance and no tuning, and because I prefer to be able to coast when I want to conserve energy.  It has flip flop pedals with a platform on one side and SPD clips on the other, so I don't have to worry about shoe choice if I just run somewhere quick.  It has a rack so I can mount a pannier, because I like the convenience and freedom of not using a backpack.  I also keep my u-lock locked and bungeed to the rack so I don't have to carry it in my backpack or mount it somewhere else on the bike.  The wheels are stout (36-spoke rear for strength) yet relatively light, and they bolt on rather than use quick release to help prevent theft.  The tires are stout as well, 700X28C with built-in puncture protection because I hate getting flats.

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Permalink Reply by Michael A on February 27, 2014 at 4:07pm

I second the cyclocross/gravel bike as a terrific all a rounder.  With a simple tire swap you can use one for trail riding, cx races, commuting, snow rides, and it makes a decent distance bike. If you were to go the custom route (Humble bikes) would be able to add even more versatility with rack and fender mounts if you so desired.

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Permalink Reply by Simon Phearson on February 27, 2014 at 5:58pm

Thanks for the thoughtful and thorough response, Nick.

- I feel good on the Cirrus, generally. At this point I need to replace some parts and figure out why some of them aren't working right, but I don't dislike the weight, the handling, etc., in any way that I notice. I don't know how much of that is just my acclimation to it, though. I'm wondering if I got on another bike, I'd feel a world of difference. Maybe I wouldn't.

- It's possible there's no real need to "upgrade" the bike. Being ignorant of the options, I suppose that's part of the question. If there isn't some magical unicorn out there that will feel and handle incredibly better than what I've got, then I'm not dead-set on "upgrading."

- I have a stupid hang-up about the fenders and panniers. It's not entirely rational. You're probably right that I should get over it. I like riding "free" of them, and I never worry too much about the "skunk stripe" you speak of (the backpack takes the brunt of it). But I'd be lying if I said that it hasn't negatively impacted the drivetrain or derailleurs. It's similar for the panniers: I think that they look dumb. Well, they do. But it's probably dumb to wear everything I'm carrying on my back.

- Thank you for sharing so much detail about your commuter. It gives me a lot to consider. Maybe I just need to evaluate my frame and add components where I think better components would help.

Nick G said:

Everyone has a different opinion on what constitutes their "best" commuter bike.  They also have (sometimes rabid) opinions on what brands & shops are good or not, what type of bike is best, etc. etc. etc. 

You have to think about what things about your current bike you don't like.

- Is it too heavy?

- Do you like or dislike the handling?

- Do the brakes and tires work well in all kinds of weather?

- Is it relatively "theft-resistant"?  i.e. do you have locking skewers, seatpost, etc.?

- Do you want more hand positions for longer rides?

- Do you like to be able to coast?

- Do you like having more than one gear choice?

These are all things to consider when choosing your "next bike".  If the riding you'll be doing with the new bike won't be substantially different than how you ride right now with the old bike, you'll probably end up with a very similar bike to what you have right now.  If that is the case, does it really make sense to just "upgrade" for the sake of upgrading?  The Cirrus is not a terrible bike.

Also, you say you're a commuter but what's your big thing against fenders?  They solve more problems than they create, IMHO.  Same with panniers - they're much easier to deal with IMHO than a backpack.

Lastly, I'll just throw up my opinions and reasoning on why I ride what I ride in the city.  My bike is a modified cyclocross bike because I like the frame geometry, it's cromoly steel so it's light, comfortable and efficient, yet stout enough to take a beating, and cyclocross bikes have V-brake mounts that normal road bikes do not.  It has fenders because they keep the road spray very minimized.  It has mountain bike V-brakes because I like to stop quickly and reliably.  It has mountain bike flat handlebars because I prefer that riding position, and I like the brake levers being easy to reach.  It's a single speed freewheel because Chicago's relatively flat, and it's a simple, reliable system that needs little maintenance and no tuning, and because I prefer to be able to coast when I want to conserve energy.  It has flip flop pedals with a platform on one side and SPD clips on the other, so I don't have to worry about shoe choice if I just run somewhere quick.  It has a rack so I can mount a pannier, because I like the convenience and freedom of not using a backpack.  I also keep my u-lock locked and bungeed to the rack so I don't have to carry it in my backpack or mount it somewhere else on the bike.  The wheels are stout (36-spoke rear for strength) yet relatively light, and they bolt on rather than use quick release to help prevent theft.  The tires are stout as well, 700X28C with built-in puncture protection because I hate getting flats.

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Permalink Reply by Simon Phearson on February 27, 2014 at 6:00pm

Thanks, Jeff. Between you and Nick, it's starting to seem like what I need isn't a new bike, but a better understanding of the bike that I've got and how to use it.

Jeff Schneider said:

For what you say you want to do, the Sirrus seems OK, if you maintain it well.

If you want a bike that is still basically a commuter bike, but lighter and with the simplicity of single speed for flat Chicago, something along the lines of the Surly Cross Check SS might be good.

Whether you get another bike or not, whatever machine you use for commuting/errands should have a rack and panniers.  Good lights are also a necessity - personally, I prefer a good hub dynamo and B&M lights.  Finally, fenders will keep you and the bike cleaner, and are IMO also a necessity unless you only ride only occasionally and only on dry roads.

Actually, putting these accessories on your existing bike would improve your riding experience a lot more than buying a new bike, carrying a backpack and getting a skunk stripe on your back.  But if you just WANT to get a bike that is a little lighter, with some components that feel a little better finished, well, I completely get that.  I've done it many times over the years ;-)

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Permalink Reply by Lisa Curcio on February 28, 2014 at 1:22am

I don't know enough about bikes to make any recommendation but one:  Go try a few different bikes.  Actually test ride them.  The best shops let you do this, of course, but don't overlook asking friend(s) to let you ride theirs if they have bike(s) that look interesting to you.  You still might decide that Nick and Jeff are right, but at least you will have some comparison.

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Permalink Reply by EssFresh on February 28, 2014 at 2:32am

I can't +1 this enough. I have been looking for a new bike for the last 4 months and went with the shop that 1.) allowed me to test ride many frames 2). let me take them into actual Chicago traffic 3.) adjusted the bars/saddle to my feedback 4.) answered all my dumb ass questions with out seeming annoyed or talking down. Becasue of this I went with a bike that wasn't even on my price radar but ultimately felt the best on multiple rides. Also the warm fuzzy feelin knowing that my money is supporting local guys here in Chicago.

 

As for your Fixed question.. I will probably own one until I am old and grayer than I am already. There is something unique to the ride that can't be replicated IMO. However if you have long commutes or haul weight, a more comfortable, geared bike is the best option.

Lisa Curcio 4.1 mi said:

I don't know enough about bikes to make any recommendation but one:  Go try a few different bikes.  Actually test ride them.  The best shops let you do this, of course, but don't overlook asking friend(s) to let you ride theirs if they have bike(s) that look interesting to you.  You still might decide that Nick and Jeff are right, but at least you will have some comparison.

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Permalink Reply by Julie Aberman (Hochstadter) on February 28, 2014 at 2:53am

I lug panniers on my road bike and love it.

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Permalink Reply by Gecko on February 28, 2014 at 3:16am

Yes, yes yes!  I always forget about this since I usually start with just a frame, but it's definitely good if you have time to go a few different shops and try as many bikes of every type as you can.  Between riding them and asking questions about them, you should have a much better understanding of the type of bike you want.

Once you've nailed down the type of bike, everything after that is easy, it's just a matter of finding one with the right combination of components or changing them to fit your expectations.  That's the great thing about bikes:  if there's something you don't like, you can always change it.  There are so many different types of components for all kinds of bikes, you just have to find what works for you.

And also, don't worry about "trends" or what's "normal" or "cool".  If I had stayed with what's "normal", I'd still have drop handlebars on one of my bikes, which I learned that I don't like after riding them for a year.  Your bike is cool because it's yours, and you enjoy riding it.  Form will follow function, and IMO bikes that get ridden hard and personalized end up looking quite good anyway.

Lisa Curcio 4.1 mi said:

I don't know enough about bikes to make any recommendation but one:  Go try a few different bikes.  Actually test ride them.  The best shops let you do this, of course, but don't overlook asking friend(s) to let you ride theirs if they have bike(s) that look interesting to you.  You still might decide that Nick and Jeff are right, but at least you will have some comparison.

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Permalink Reply by Lisa Curcio on February 28, 2014 at 3:28am

When I decided on my LHT because I love the frame and the ride, there were parts that I did not like/did not fit me.  Comrade Cycles made suggestions based on my feedback and I was able to switch out most of them for an almost even exchange.  A couple of things cost more money (like the Brooks saddle :-)) but the net price ended up being almost the same as the price of the stock bike.
 
Nick G said:

<snip>

Once you've nailed down the type of bike, everything after that is easy, it's just a matter of finding one with the right combination of components or changing them to fit your expectations.  That's the great thing about bikes:  if there's something you don't like, you can always change it.  There are so many different types of components for all kinds of bikes, you just have to find what works for you.

<snip>
 

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Permalink Reply by David P. on February 28, 2014 at 6:38am

Simon,

You may indeed be happy to just better understand your needs and preferences and make some informed changes to the bike you have. And you surely are acclimatized to its handling. I get the impression that your feelings around getting another bike are not based on need, but on want - wanting to have something newer and nicer and informed by what you have learned so far.(Correct me if I am wrong.)

If you ride a wide variety of bikes, you will find that there are very significant differences in feeling and handling between your bike and other bikes our there. That is not to say that anything in particular is better, only that everything is different. You may find, after riding other bikes, that you do still like the geometry and handling of what you have the best. Or you may not. I second the suggestion to just ride stuff. I don't know what size you are, but if you fit my bikes (I'm 6 feet and ride around a 57-58 in conventional frames) you're welcome to take one or two for a ride to see what they're like.

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Permalink Reply by Hey! Bike Shop Guy on February 28, 2014 at 6:38am

First off get over the thing about racks, fenders and panniers; those are the things that make a bike useful and comfortable to use as transportation.  You want a bike 'free' of them get a second bike to ride for sport.

As for what bike is right for you there are so many questions to ask to figure that out the discussion could go on forever.  My recommendation is go to a bunch of shops and talk to as many people, and ride as many bikes as you can.  Keep this stuff in mind when you head out to look at bikes:

• Make sure the sales person is asking you a TON of questions about what you ride now, what you like/dislike about it, how much you ride, how much you WANT to ride, where and how you ride, your goals with your new bike, etc...
• Make sure they give you options, be wary of any sales person that steers you towards one bike and then pushes that bike.
• Make sure they listen to you and address ALL of your questions and concerns in a satisfactory manner; make them explain things and not just tell you need things, 'because.'
• RIDE bikes, if a shop does not let you test ride bikes leave and head somewhere that does.
• Ride as many brands, styles and models as you have time to ride but don't get hung up on brand; most bikes are made in the same factories regardless of the brand they are sold as.
• Don't buy a bike at a shop out of guilt about the amount of time you spent there, it's the sales person job to help you find the right bike and that bike is not always at their store.

All that aside, based on the little bit you have said I would steer you to a steel touring or 'cross bike with racks, fenders and good puncture resistant tires on it as a true all purpose bike initially and go from there.

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