Struggling to decide which bike...

[ehjack90]

So after a few years of missing out, I've decided to get back on the bike again. My work is currently offering the "Cycle to work" scheme so I thought I would use this as an excuse to get started again.

My commute would involve some minor road use and a lot of footpath/canal terrain (about 30 mins worth). Unfortunately Halfords is the only place I'm eligible as part of the scheme and my budget is £500.

I have done a small bit of research and figured I would most likely need a hybrid since it offers various terrains.
I've been looking at the 13 Implicit Alpha (http://www.halfords.com/cycling/bik...ssic-bikes/13-implicit-alpha-hybrid-bike-2015) which looks fantastic and I would save some weight losing the suspension similar models offer.

Is this bike good specced/be suitable for my commute if not do you recommend any others? I also plan to take the bike on the back of my car to some light trails/stoney footpaths at weekends if possible (Trying to increase my fitness).

Thanks a lot.

 

[vickster]

Another option would be a Boardman

http://www.halfords.com/cycling/bikes/hybrid-bikes-and-classic-bikes/boardman-hybrid-comp-bike

Halfords can source all sorts of brands, you are not restricted to what they have on their website

http://www.cycle2work.info/siteemployeeindex

And there are other retailers which take the Halfords voucher if you fancy something else

http://www.cycle2work.info/siteadvicecentrebrand

That said the 13 and Boardman ranges get good reviews

 

[ehjack90]

I saw the Boardman Hybrid Comp, I like the design but a few people have complained about the overall durability and that it's not great off-road.

Oh thanks for the information, I didn't know Halfords outsourced other brands as well!

In that case do you recommend the Merida Speeder/Crossway 100 over the 13 Implicit Alpha?

http://www.merida-bikes.com/en_int/bikes/cross/cross/2014/crossway-100-378.html
http://www.merida-bikes.com/en_gb/b...flat-bar-road-bike/2015/speeder-100-3435.html

Would it be worth getting the suspension forks? Would I benefit from it based on my commute etc?

 

[vickster]

Suspension on more budget bikes is generally heavy and not very good, better off with a rigid fork. I'm not familiar with the models you mention, go have a ride / sit on them and see what you think

If riding on roads, I'd not bother with suspension, only really need for off roading or if you have a medical condition where the softness would be of benefit. The Boardman is a road going bike, but 28mm tyres should be able to cope with paths and parks etc

 

[Pale Rider]

I would go for the 13 bike because of the hydraulic discs.

The basic cable discs on the Boardman will require more maintenance.

Neither bike is specced for commuting, so you need to allow a few quid for mudguards, some way of carrying stuff, and probably later in the year, some lights.

As with all things bicycles, you can pay a lot, especially for the lights.

But a usable set up could be had for well under £100.

 

[ehjack90]

Thanks for the great help and advice. I think I'm steering (no pun intended) towards the 13.

Looking forward to getting back on the road again.