What should I look for in a bike for commutes?

[Unknowingcyclist]

I've been commuting for about two years now and started as a way to save money. The bike I have while still working is an old mountain bike which was given to me for free. I'm considering buying a new bike in the next few months but have no idea what makes, models or things I should look for/avoid. Any suggestions?

 

[Matthew_T]

Someone asked me the exact same thing on Facebook the other day.

You need to establish how far your commute is, what the road terrain is like, what you need to take, and how comfortable you need to be. You also need to establish if you want to get there in a hurry or just at a leisurely pace.

 

[Ladytrucker]

Someone at work was talking about this too. I would consider where you are leaving the bike all day. Does your workplace provide secure bike parking/lockers etc. Do you really want to leave an expensive bike chained up in a public area all day?

 

[Unknowingcyclist]

Right now I'm a student comng up to graduation so can't say anything for definate but these are things I will bear in mind though, thanks.

 

[buggi]

All things considered you will probably end up with a hybrid (flat handlebars) or touring bike (drop handles), which will have big wheels to get you there quick, put on good tyres (eg Schwalbe marathons so you can drop onto rougher terrain like a tow path) and something that can take panniers if at any time you decide to add them. There aren't many commute routes that take in the kind of terrain a mountain bike is made for so a hybrid or tourer will be a much easier and comfier ride.

 

[avsd]

Comfort, mudguards with clearance for larger tyres e.g. 700x28 or 700xx35 , eyelets for rack. Disc brake could be useful if you do bike mileage. Space for lights and spedo/garmin on front bars. Single speed is easier to maintain in the winter if your run to work is flat. Strong wheels - 32/36 spokes.

Check out the Kona Honky for some ideas.

http://www.evanscycles.com/products/kona/honky-inc-2012-road-bike-ec034487

One of the guys on here, Ianruk used one. Check his posts.