Do I *really* need a roadbike?

[threefingerjoe]

Adunn,

As others have said, it all depends on what you want to do. For commuting, and most other jaunts to the store, around town, etc., I use a Trek hybrid...a 7500FX with slicks, mudguards, rack, lights, etc. That is my main bike.

For pleasure riding on the weekends, I ride a long wheelbase recumbent, also with slicks, fenders, rack, and a fairing. On a ride like that, I have the only recumbent among my group. Some ride touring bikes, a couple ride road bikes. The only time they can outride me is on a long climb, or quick accelleration from a stop. On the open road, I do a lot of coasting, waiting for them to catch up...and I'm an old fat guy. Mind you, we're not racing...just day touring. I'm just trying to point out that on a ride like that, with your friends, you're "all in it together", and I doubt that you'd have any problems keeping up, be it on a tourer, or your existing bike. Unless you are actually racing, I'd give the road bike a miss.

Personally, if I were in your situation, and really wanted to buy a new bike, I'd consider the tourer over the stripped road bike. It's a little more relaxed geometry, and more comfortable on the long "fun" ride, than the road bike. It will also accept wider tires, and the steering isn't quite so twitchy. IMO, MOST people who are riding road bikes, would be better off on a tourer.

 

[just4fun]

Half-way down the page there is some info on what the different bike styles are suitable for.

http://cyclechat.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=14846

the advantage of buying a new bike would be that it is lighter, this would imrpove your times. saying that i was in the same situation as yourself but my bike had thick mtb tyres which i have now change for slicks which has been an improvement although im still 5kg heavier than a tourer and have to bugger about changing tyres to suit my bike use.
If you can afford a new bike then by all means go ahead but i wouldnt say its entirely needed for a 15- 20 minute cycle. Good luck with your decision.

 

[ed_o_brain]

adunn01,

You don't *need* a road bike.
However, a second steed is always useful. It covers you in the event you go to wheel your bike out in the morning and find you have a flat. Or one of the bikes is in the shop for repairs.

If you are sold on that argument, consider bikes that would have useful extra versatility for you. E.g. a folder for throwing in the boot of the car to take on holiday or use on trains, a tourer for, well, touring. A slick tyred MTB with disc brakes for sprinting across town from A to B. A racing bike for club runs. The choice is almost endless and ultimately it's yours.

Pretty much any bike can be used for commuting, especially short distances. In this household there's a tandem, slicked up MTB, a more full-on hardtail, folder and a fixie. All of which have been used at one time or another for commuting purposes.

 

[Flying Dodo]

+1 to the above.

The cycle to work rules only say that the bike should mainly be used for commuting, but no-one is going to be checking up on you.

Go for it.

 

[martinwf5]

I was thinking of getting a road bike, but it only takes me 20 mins commute (on road), but last week i got that bored of the same route, off i went round the back of work, onto the canal tow path, across some rough field/footpaths, and it took me an extra 45 mins to get home, great fun , im keeping the mtb , no need for another !!!

Martin