Help me choose a bike please

[Daisychaingirl]

Hi, it's been years since I've been cycling and I'm the wrong side of 30, so I've decided to get a bike and get a bit fitter. But the choice is overwhelming and I need some advice please. I'm mainly going to cycle on paths/roads and on our local waggonways. Been looking at a few bikes and fancy a aluminium frame hybrid, front suspension or not, saw a bike with a Suntour m2025 suspension with lockout, but have no idea if these are any good. The following bikes are what I think I want, can anyone tell me if their any good. Thanks in advance.

http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/pro...-12?bct=browse/bicycles/commuter-hybrid-bikes
http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/pro...-13?bct=browse/bicycles/commuter-hybrid-bikes
http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/pro...-13?bct=browse/bicycles/commuter-hybrid-bikes
http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/pro...-13?bct=browse/bicycles/commuter-hybrid-bikes
http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/pro...-13?bct=browse/bicycles/commuter-hybrid-bikes
http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/pro...-13?bct=browse/bicycles/commuter-hybrid-bikes

 

[vickster]

Assuming you have an EBC locally, I'd go along and have a sit and if possibly a ride on the options. See which one makes your heart jump

 

[Ajax_Gaz]

Hello

The first thing i'd ask is all the bike's you've linked to are at Edinburgh Bicycles, is this bike shop anywhere near you? A hybrid with an aluminium frame would be what you're looking for (don't bother with a front suspension fork) but you would need to try a few bikes to see what you like, what suits you, what size you need etc.

The Revolution bikes are Edinburgh Bicycles own brand and have a decent reputation, likewise the other bikes you've listed. The other thing you could try is give Edinburgh Bicycles a ring if you are set on one of those. I spoke to a sales agent there yesterday and can highly recommend them.

 

[Daisychaingirl]

Hi, thanks for the advice, I've also seen http://www.evanscycles.com/products/trek/t10-2011-womens-hybrid-bike-ec001535#BVRRWidgetID but its steel. Can I ask why would I not need front suspension, I thought this would lessen the impact?

 

[vickster]

Front suspension adds weight (especially on cheaper bikes) and if not locked, saps energy. If most of your riding is going to be away from tarmac and over rough stuff, then yes suspension is ok - you'll be more comfortable but slower and it'll be harder work. Fatter tyres on these sorts of bikes will also soften the ride.

Personally I prefer a carbon fork and good padded glove and will slow you downs, but then I ride on roads and want to go as quick as I can.

Go to EBC and have a look at the options, buy the bike you find most comfy and like the look of - both of these will encourage you to ride more

 

[Daisychaingirl]

Thanks vickster, I didn't know that, not going down the suspension route now, going to try and get to shop today :-)