beginner looking for new bicycle suggestions

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stwopaat

New Member
i want to get a new bicycle. haven't ridden since i was a kiddie so i'm very much a beginner for now. before i go to the local bicycle shop to try out some bikes i want to have a good idea of what to look for.

basically i'll be riding it every day as a short commute (4km each way). it will be a leisurely commute - won't need to rush or transport anything. the route will be about 50% tarmac, 40% maintained lawn (like a soccer field), 10% thicker grass / pavement bumps etc.

budget is around $400/$500. i like the idea of the bike coming from the "alternate" range of a solid manufacturer like Kona or Trek, or any manufacturer that has a lot of champion riders using their bikes - if that's silly please tell me. bike must not be too technical - i'm thinking single gear. bike must be kinda lightweight. bike must be sturdy enough to handle the odd pothole or pavement climb or whatever. bike must be fun to ride.

any suggestions appreciated!
 

ianrauk

Tattooed Beat Messiah
Location
Rides Ti2
Where are you based stwopaat?
 

vickster

Legendary Member
This is a UK forum which may explain the lack of replies. Might be best to post up some options of things you like and then people can comment rather than leaving it totally open, as the models may well be different

One thing to note, pretty much all bikes are made in the same Far East factories, just the designs that vary. Best to look at the components and always have a test ride. I am not sure why having champion riders on the bikes is a criteria - they all ride top end carbon bespoke stuff and not an alu single speed

I'll start you off with the Trek Soho, Specialized Langster or Charge Plug (no idea if they are available in SA)

Some reviews, not necessarily of the latest models...

http://bicycling.about.com/od/bikeequipmentaccessories/fr/Trek_Soho.htm

http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/categ...eview-specialized-bicycles-langster-09-33814/

http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/bikes/road/product/review-charge-bikes-plug-07-20542/

Also look in the SS forum
 
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