I am one of those people.....

[Dharma Wheel]

...who as no idea where to turn.

After a great 2 years getting into cycling I am now looking to make a step up.

Currently ridding a Trek FX 7.3 but now want to sell that and get a bike that is A- for commuting (5 days a week) B- weekrnd road riding (70km) and C-light Touring (1 night stop over)

I've seen the Surosa Audax, Tifosi CK7, Specailized Tricross, Ribble 7005, Dawes Century.

They all look like the kind of thing for me. Looking to buy second hand (if you've got something, let me know), to save money but for the lower price end may buy new.

Can anyone recomend any of these for my uses? or warn me off? or suggest something else?

Also a little stuck on size, i' only 168-170cm tall with a 29/30" inside leg, what size frame should i aim for?

Cheers.

P.S. i am also a fan of a more classic look!

 

[Fab Foodie]

I think you've kinda answered your own question!
My tendancy would be towards the Dawes, for the triple chainrings and the Steel frame. Maybe a a tad heavier, but will be more comfortable to ride (especially over greater distances) and will cope with light touring admirably. The frame has all the classic looks and is beautifully finished. My clubmate has one for commuting and club riding and he loves it.

There's nothing inherently wrong with the others either, but to me they lack the loveliness of the Dawes.

 

[Dharma Wheel]

Should've mentioned budget. even though nothing is set in stone i reckon between 500-750 is what i've got to play with. so will need to look at 2nd hand.

Obviously the dawes is way over that but don't know what the second market is like for such a bike?

However mr Foodie, the Dawe century do look rather nice indeed.