Hybrid bike advice needed

[Jambo]

Hi,

Searching google for some advice I came across this place so thought I'd register.

I'm planning to buy a bike in the next couple of weeks, and I'm finding it tough to come to a decision on what to get.

Although I haven't owned a bike for about 5 years, I used to own a Specialisezd Rockhopper which got a fair bit of abuse. mainly off-road, but I also used it for commuting occasionally.

The new one will get less of the abuse and more of the commute.

I'd say 90% of the time the bike will be used for my commute to and from work, and the other 10% for some fairly light off-roading.

There are two bikes I've been looking at; The Charge Mixer and The Cotic Roadrat, which I believe Brixton Cycles can spec to a similar level as the Mixer for a similar price.

I'm leaning toward the Cotic as it seems a little more suited to taking a few knocks.

Does anyone have any advice on my shortlist. Or some suitable alternatives?

My budget is £700.

Cheers.

 

[John the Monkey]

Have you seen the Bikeradar review? They liked the Roadrat, for what it's worth.

http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/bikes/road/product/roadrat-10010

I've seen Planet X' "Uncle John" cross bike frames built up into flat bar style hybrids too
, e.g. http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=24233 on sale at Chain Reaction.

 

[fossyant]

Scott Sub's - they look pretty neat ! 26" and 700c varieties as well.

 

[Bugner]

Have you looked at the Specialized Tricross Sport? £700. Just ordered myself one :-)