Upgrading to a "nice" bike

[dee.jay]

So a few weeks ago, I became a CCIE. For anyone who doesn't know - it's basically an Expert level Networking exam that I spent a lot of time preparing for.

Anyway, as my treat for passing - in a few months time I am going to buy a proper nice bike as while my CBE100 is "OK", I want something awesome. I've had a few ideas for what I want, but basically: -

I want a one-bike for all thing, I'm not too worried about having multiple bikes.
Primarily my 5-8 mile commute is what I want it for.
But I want to be able to use it for other trips about as well - not interested in Mountain Biking.

A good friend of mine has recommended a Genesis Croix de Fer 20 which fits my budget (£1200) as it is a Cyclocross bike for commuters, so it will be handy for other things other than commuting. He also recommended I buy a frameset and build it custom like, but I am unsure of this method. I've not a clue what parts go with what and I've had a look into it and not sure what I need to buy in order to accomplish this.

I am willing to stretch a bit more mooney too if there is something better.

 

[Sittingduck]

Are you going to use it only on roads or on dirty tracks too?

 

[dee.jay]

Roads/Bike paths - it's all tarmac though essentially.

 

[vickster]

Have a look at the whyte disc braked road bike range if not riding on very rough stuff

The Suffolk is around your budget

http://www.jejamescycles.co.uk/whyte-suffolk-road-bike-id84915.html

The croix de fer is a lovely bike but not the lightest, being steel and chunky

 

[dee.jay]

That looks awesome- can I put a rack on it? (Sorry I should have mentioned that)

 

[vickster]

Or how about something left field, I doubt you'll ever see another in Wales if wanting individuality

http://www.pearsoncycles.co.uk/pearson-the-rough-with-the-smooth.html

 

[vickster]

That looks awesome- can I put a rack on it? (Sorry I should have mentioned that)

Yes and mudguards

http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/products/whyte-suffolk-15

 

[dee.jay]

Sorry, I couldn't see the eyelets!

Thanks! That Pearson is gorgeous!

 

[vickster]

Find your local Whyte dealer and see what sort of deal you can strike.

http://whyte.bike/gb/whyte-dealer-locator/

Someone recently got the Suffolk with a decent discount @JoeyB ?

If you want individual service and a bike specced to you, can't beat Pearsons. Give them a call (try the Sheen branch rather than Sutton and you might get to speak to one of the brothers)

 

[dee.jay]

Three dealers near me

 

[vickster]

Three dealers near me

Give them a call

 

[JoeyB]

Find your local Whyte dealer and see what sort of deal you can strike.

http://whyte.bike/gb/whyte-dealer-locator/

Someone recently got the Suffolk with a decent discount @JoeyB ?

If you want individual service and a bike specced to you, can't beat Pearsons. Give them a call (try the Sheen branch rather than Sutton and you might get to speak to one of the brothers)

Yup, I got a 2015 Suffolk for £960 - 20% discount I think from Cycleworld in Portsmouth. They have a few stores but are all down south. It was a January sale special and only on bikes they had physically in store...so I got lucky as they had my size in store! I'm sure you could squeeze them for a 10% discount though. I had another bike store offer 10% off a 2015 Genesis Equilibrium (the yellow one) without any request from me whatsoever!

 

[dee.jay]

I think I will - I really like that Whyte. Thanks!

 

[vickster]

Even if they won't give you a discount, ask for some free/discounted whyte mudguards, a new rack, and some better tyres (the maxxis detonators are a bit poo)

 

[siadwell]

Spotted on HDUK: Genesis 2014 Day One "ultra durable city commuter and touring bike" with Di2 electronic shifting and Alfine hub gears for £1,199.99. Would be mail order.
http://www.rutlandcycling.com/29893...one-di2-alfine-steel-road-bike-black-red.aspx