Rigid fork fast flat bar bikes with disc brakes?

[simon.r]

I don't even know what a hub gear is!

Think of it as a big rear hub with the derailleurs inside It does away with the need for front and rear derailleurs and one shifter.

Advantages - cleaner, less maintenance, can change gear when stopped, simpler to change gear (no faffing about matching front and rear).
Disadvantages - a bit heavier, need to adjust chain tension occasionally, bigger steps between gears.

 

[ianrauk]

Another vote for the Kona, but me and Ian are biased.
The Orbea Carpe is a bit out of your price range at £719 but looks great.
http://www.orbea.com/gb-en/bicycles/carpe-h30/

SSSSHHHHHH!!!

 

[Beebo]

Disadvantages - a bit heavier, need to adjust chain tension occasionally, bigger steps between gears.

The other big disadvantage is a puncture is a complete pita.

 

[vickster]

Thanks guys I have a while to ponder and I need to sell the MTB.

I don't think I want a Giant as my commuter roadie is one

The Orbea is quite bling, not sure where I'd find one to ride / buy?

I shall keep an eye on the Kona. And other bargains as the new model launches approach

 

[I like Skol]

http://www.tredz.co.uk/.GT-Traffic-1-0-2011-Hybrid-Sports-Bike_39347.htm

I like this but it is GREY.

The tektro calipers turned out to be a bit pants on mine but these have been swapped to trouble free Shimano ones now

 

[vickster]

Yeah too grey and it looks a bit chunky for a fast commuter?

 

[jefmcg]

Hey Vicks,

When I was looking for a commuter Pearsons had two suggestions: Flat bar rather than drop, and buy a single speed and they'd fit it with hub gears. Just another option, but you would be doubling up on a brand.

Make sure you sus out the parking situation at work. Honestly, I wouldn't turn my back on that Orbea to tie my shoelace in London I'm about to sign up for £50/month just to get cycle parking near my work.

 

[Cyclist33]

Yeah too grey and it looks a bit chunky for a fast commuter?

You obviously ain't seen Skol on his!

 

[I like Skol]

You obviously ain't seen Skol on his!

That's the problem, blink and you've missed me

 

[vickster]

Hey Vicks,

When I was looking for a commuter Pearsons had two suggestions: Flat bar rather than drop, and buy a single speed and they'd fit it with hub gears. Just another option, but you would be doubling up on a brand.

Make sure you sus out the parking situation at work. Honestly, I wouldn't turn my back on that Orbea to tie my shoelace in London I'm about to sign up for £50/month just to get cycle parking near my work.

Yeah, the Orbea is a bit bling for London

I believe the building does have secure parking, but would need to confirm for sure

I do think I'd be happier on flat bars for a London commute, better braking and a bit more upright above traffic. I think I'll stick with derailleur gears, the cost of maintenance isn't really a concern (given how long I keep my bikes for ). Certainly not dismissing the used option if something comes up (like a Cambridge )

 

[vickster]

I had a look at and a sit on the Kona at Evans today

However, as jefmcg pointed out, with my gammy elbow, carbon forks should be high on the list. Look to be pretty few a far between though (is that because of the disc brakes?) - Ridgeback Flight 02, the Whyte Cambridge, and an extremely dull black and grey Jamis that Evans had.

I'm watching a Cambridge on fleabay. Always wanted one. This looks a good deal so I may crumble!

Any others , if I push the budget to £800?

(definitely not Specialized - looking in the concept store today, they just leave me utterly cold )

 

[vickster]

Well....

I just bought myself this

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/200885976145?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649



Now, who wants to buy a hardtail? http://www.cyclechat.net/threads/kona-lisa-2009-ladies-hardtail-18”.123174/

 

[jefmcg]

Do you want me to ride it to your place?

 

[vickster]

I was going to drive over and collect or get the train, probably on Saturday now But we could certainly meet for a drink!

 

[David Haworth]

Well....
I just bought myself this
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/200885976145?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

congratulations! I have to admit, I love my whyte R7 bike and I'm sure yours will be exceedingly similar. probably the same frame actually.

let us know how you like it? looks like a good deal.

david