Hybrid/commuter bike for a short 5'3'' guy

[robokot]

Hi! I'm looking for a 15 or 16 inch mens hybrid/commuter that has a comfortable upright riding position, is solid, simple, lightweight, ideally comes with a pannier/mudguards and maybe a dynamo light thought that's not necessary. My budget is around £200-300.

 

[vickster]

Does it have to be a men's model? You may find a women's works too, they don't only come in pink! Your budget will also limit the choice, unless happy with second hand - especially depending on your definition of lightweight - pretty much all new bikes in that price range are going to be around 13-16kg

However, this ticks all your boxes, but over 14kg

http://www.evanscycles.com/products/jamis/commuter-1-2014-hybrid-bike-ec057513

 

[robokot]

Thanks, this seems perfect. I don't really mind if it's a bit heavier - comfort is really a priority for me as I have a hernia and can't lean forward too much.

I've also tried a ladies carrera crossfire in Halfords but didn't feel particularly comfy on it.

Any opinions on this B'Twin one that caught my eye? Is it better value for money to the Jamis Commuter 1?
http://www.decathlon.co.uk/original-5-night-day-leisure-bike-grey-id_8165506.html ?

 

[vickster]

Go look at both. The Decathlon does nothing for me aesthetically, and not only because it's a boring grey It comes in M or L, assume will be too big and I reckon with the cheap fork, it'll weigh a ton

But go ride

 

[robokot]

Thank you, I've narrowed it down to two bikes - not sure which one is better value for money and company more reliable with bike building / delivery?

Jamis Commuter 1 2014 for £265 from Evans Cycles that was posted above

Revolution Trail finder for £199.99 from Edinburgh Bicycle CoOp: http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/products/revolution-trailfinder?bct=browse/bicycles
I would need to fit a pannier on it so that would be about £220-230 total

 

[Pale Rider]

The wider gear range - mountain triple at the front - of the Revolution would swing it for me.

 

[The Jogger]

Carrera Subway Halfords seems s good deal for the budget.

 

[The Jogger]

Just checked the smallest is 18" for mens.

 

[robokot]

I also have an option to buy a Carrera Valour mtb for a really cheap £140. If I had it fitted with city tires and mudguards/rack would it be an acceptable alternative to the Revolution Trail finder? Is the raiding position as comfortable or will I need to make adjustments to the handlebars? Thanks for all the help !

 

[vickster]

Where are you raiding? Is there pillaging involved too?

Yes, an MTB with slicks is quite adequate for a commute. Depends how far and fast you want to go

 

[robokot]

lol, yeah, typing at 11pm...
That's great - will think about what I want and can afford and get a bike. Can't wait.

 

[Pale Rider]

I also have an option to buy a Carrera Valour mtb for a really cheap £140. If I had it fitted with city tires and mudguards/rack would it be an acceptable alternative to the Revolution Trail finder? Is the raiding position as comfortable or will I need to make adjustments to the handlebars? Thanks for all the help !

The riding position of the mtb may be a little lower at the front than the Revolution.

Only you will know if it's comfortable, but you can gain some extra height by fitting an adjustable stem.

http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/..._productId_981893_langId_-1_categoryId_230508