best bike for 12m commute

[PBancroft]

I commute about the same distance on a Mountain Bike. It's quite tough going actually, and takes me about an hour. It has front suspension, which makes the bike rather heavy.

I'm a small guy (you're about two of me) and I'm considering investing in a much lighter bike. I would be thinking a road bike with drops and Topeak panniers for ease of use (but then I'm a Topeak junkie).

 

[BentMikey]

Something that's remained unsaid here, perhaps because it's the obvious first thing, is that comfort and test rides are much more important than bike type. A road bike with drops is good, but only if it fits the OP and feels good, and is comfortable. If not, then don't buy it! I would spend a lot of time taking test rides on lots of different bike models and types at different bike shops.

 

[twowheelsgood]

Tourer with flat or drops to preference. 32 or 35c tyres with guard clearence.

If I was spending a little more money I'd go for a Surly long haul trucker frame with shimano Deore or LX components and good 36 spoke wheels.

 

[sadjack]

I've used an old mountain bike with slicks.

I bought a touring bike with drops this year and I personaly find it a real improvement in comfort and speed over the 28 miles I do. Fitted with panniers for clothes etc its much better I think than having a rucksack on your back.

But I suppose it does come down to a) cost and what you want to spend and having tried the bike, how does it feel for YOU.

Have a good look around and try a few before you decide on what is a very personal choice!

 

[HJ]

Best bike for 12m commute? One that is comfortable, there is no one bike that is perfect for everyone, at the end of the day your are the one that is riding it. The best thing to do is try as many as you can and pick the one that feels the best. Sorry if that is not being helpful but it is well meant...

 

[liambauckham]

my commute is about 12 each way too, and i ride a full suspension mtb with knobbly tires. i managed to find a pannier rack to fit my bike and the difference has been amazing i no longer sweat like a nonce in pc world

 

[Bugner]

Tim,

I too commute 12 miles each way (Bromley to London) started off on Mountain bike, recently purchased Specialized Tricross. Made an absolute world of difference, lighter faster. Drop handle bars give more hand positions. but still a tough bike. Cost £700 but if your company does cycle to work scheme (like mine ), you get it for approx half price.

 

[womblechops]

I also have an 11.5 mile commute (from Beckenham so I have a .5 head start on Bugner above!) and I have been doing it on an aluminium Ridgeback with flat handlebarsand 700c tyres for a couple of years.

My wrists are tired of the bumps and so I am currently looking for a replacement too - so any suggestions are gratefully received.

As mentioned above I agree that panniers are much more useful than bag carrying - I hate having to carry a bag, especially in summer weather so too often put my sarnies in my shorts pockets. I need a decent bike if only to save my lunch.

I am thinking of a VSF Fahrrad from Bikefix http://www.bikefix.co.uk/index.php?...fa&get_ol_id=2&get_gl_id=13&get_sgl_id=35#a13

as my only other list of wants is a bike I can (later in the year) put a child carrier on.

 

[BentMikey]

Alright Bugner and Wombles! I used to live in Beckenham, then moved to Bromley, and am now in Biggin Hill. My commute is to the west end, near the Royal Albert Hall.

 

[Riding in Circles]

Alright Bugner and Wombles! I used to live in Beckenham, then moved to Bromley, and am now in Biggin Hill. My commute is to the west end, near the Royal Albert Hall.

No point riding with them, they won't be able to keep up on their wedgies.

 

[BentMikey]

I'm a tart, LOL, I'll ride with anyone.

 

[Riding in Circles]

I'm a tart.

I know, the first thing you did when you met me was roll up the leg of your shorts to show me your tan line, it was an unpleasant and deeply disturbing experience.

 

[BentMikey]

That's not what the girls say, LOL!

 

[womblechops]

In all the time I've been commuting I have never seen a 'bent bike on my route until I got into town - where I see loads as I work yards from Bikefix.

Perhaps they were going too fast and they were just blurry...

I was tempted to get one, if only just to wind up my wife who thinks recumbent cycling will only increase her chances of a payout from my life insurance. I then realised that for this reason she would probably encourage it.

The trouble is the requirement for a child seat, which isn't particularly 'bent friendly.

I have already made a mental note of the Hase Pino for use in a few years though...

 

[peloquin]

I agree with BentMikey & HairyJock (greatnames!)..
Get into stores and try try try!
I came across a roadbike which I thought id link ~ it seems well specced at £249.00 :

http://www.decathlon.co.uk/EN/fitness-flatbar-42393905/