Hi,
I’m looking to get back into cycling after about a ten year break. I used to cycle everywhere but travel, injury and moving to the suburbs basically stopped me.
The main rides I’ll be doing:
36km (22mi) between my place and my girlfriends - little bit of road, mostly bike path, a little bit of gravel.
8km (5mi) to JiuJitsu class - road/pavement/path.
With at least one loaded pannier, possibly two.
I’m 110kg (~242lb) with a fairly solid build, the steel frames are appealing.
I may do a little touring, I haven’t done it before but Australia has some great off road tour options. It might just be a nice idea that I never get around to. I like camping and being alone which is what appeals about touring.
Being in Australia, I’m pretty limited on what bikes are actually available.
I was recommended the Kona Sutra LTD ($4k) (by a sales guy) but I feel that the wide tires aren’t a great choice for the commuting and it’s a bit more than I was planning to spend. I don’t mind spending more on getting the right bike for me but I’m also pretty frugal so would prefer to spend less if I can find the right bike for less.
I’ve also been considering the Marin Nicasio plus ($1.3K), Nicasio 2 ($2.2k), Surly Preamble ($2.9k), Salsa Cutthroat ($4.9k) or maybe a Bombtrack Hook ($3.6k).
Plus about $1000 for fenders, racks and a big fat lock to lock it up.
Thanks for any input.
I have a Marin and am a big fan of it. But not that model. I agree to finding something on the cheaper end or, maybe even better: see if you can go test drive these bikes! See what you like before you buy. Make sure you have the seat height and everything set correctly for you. And remember that changing seats and handlebars is very easy if you don’t like the feel/shape/position. Changing shifters and drivetrain components takes a lot more work.