What’s the best hybrid bicycle for commuting?
I need a bike for commuting locally that's light (needs to go up 2 staircases daily), has an upright seating position, and a low step-thru for 0 or under.
I'm considering the Transcend Giant 2009, or maybe a Marin Kentfield 2009, or possibly something like the Novara Mia. My main issue is that I want something with style and comfort, but can't afford the weight or price of a lot of options.
Advice, please?
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Tags: marin kentfield, novara, seating position, staircases
You’ve done your research so are serious about this. And need something reliable. Work with a local bike shop for correct sizing and servicing. Fit is First. If your commute is along fairly flat terrain, check out single speeds to reduce weight maybe, and complexity.
The Giant looks pretty much right to me. No shocks, which you don’t need. Nice rack and fenders. Be careful with the tires. Stock bikes often come with puncture prone tires. You’ll want one’s with good puncture resistance. Think kevlar lining. Don’t forget the frame pump and patch kit, or at least a spare tube. You’ll need do know what to do when you get a flat. And you will. Learn how to clean and lube the chain.
Tip: nuts/bolts, even thin chrome, will rust unless you live in a very dry area. Coat with clear nail polish.
"…but can’t afford the weight or price of a lot of options." I don’t know exactly what you mean by ‘options’. Add ons? Any bike by Giant, Raleigh, Trek or other brand names will be made from aluminum most likely. That’ll be as light as you can get. I prefer Raleigh…if that means anything. You mentioned a step-through bike. Several ladies step-through hybrid bikes listed below on the links…
Go to your local bike shop, let them know your price, subtract the cost of a helmet. DO NOT go to WalMart. The bikes at WalMart, Target, etc. may look the same for less money, but they will not hold up. $450 should be doable for an entry level bike. I recommend something with as little tread as possible on the tires (this makes riding on pavement much easier, even if you don’t notice at first, and actually increases grip on pavement, even if it is wet). 700c (also caled 28inch sometimes) is a good size as you should have many tire options. Assume that the bike is going to weigh somewhere between 20 and 30 pounds. Remember that shocks weigh more. You should avoid bikes with rear shocks in that price range. If you want, you can get one with a small front shock, but that’s really a matter of preference, and it’s more weight that you’ll have to carry. The weight really won’t matter while you are riding.
The easiest way to pick up a bike with a step through frame is to stand to the left (to keep the chain off of your clothes) of the bike, put your right hand on the down tube near the crank, and your left hand on the handlebars where it normally goes and then stand up.