Kona Jake?

[Aggie_Ama]

My DH and I were looking at possibly getting a pair of these bikes for commuting. Anyone have any opinions? It looks like the most bang for the buck. Our commute is going to be kind of long (15-25 miles), so we are pretty set on Cyclocross bikes.

[SuperRunt]

I ride Jake to work (about 12 miles one way). I think he's the 2001 model. With glow in the dark paint! :D

I have made some modifications. I got a second non-cross wheel set, and put more of a road riding style cassette on it. Sorry, can't remember exact numbers. Just told the bike shop I wanted something average, and I have been happy with it.

I also put shorter handlebars on it (Salsa Poco), and a different seat.

I've had Jake for years, and he's never let me down. :)

That said; I've ridden a Bianchi and a Surly cross bike I really liked too. I think the cross style geometry is great for commuting. You get to be somewhat aerodynamic for the longer commutes, but it's not so extreme that carrying a bag or backpack is uncomfortable.

[kat_h]

I bought one about a month ago and love it. When I bought it I was planning to mostly stay on pavement, but I have ended up taking lots of 'shortcuts' which lead to getting lost and inevitably racing down gravel roads or cutting through construction zones. It has excelled at everything I've thrown at it (including pavement.)

[Di bear]

I have a 2007 Jake the Snake. Love it! I use it for road riding, cyclocross, and commuting! :-)

[Velobambina]

Never mind. I started rambling about my Lisa, which is a mountain bike. LOL.

[firenze11]

I've had my Jake since October and I've had pretty much the same experience as Kat_h mentioned. I bought it to be a little tougher on our stone chip and oil roads but I've now ridden almost exclusively on dirt roads, gravel, and trails I've found in the woods. Never would have guessed that. It's nice to have those options. I love him.

[tulip]

I really like how the Jake looks, but I'm partial to steel bikes. If you like steel bikes (alot more comfy than alu, IMO), you might want to look at the Surly Crosscheck and the Jamis bikes.

But if you like alu, go for the Jake (if it fits, of course).

[Aggie_Ama]

Anyone have any advice on how these fit. I am short (5'2") with a short torso. I know I need to test ride but wondering if little me will even fit most cross bikes.

I would prefer steel, hubby alum. Honestly the only reason I want a Jake over the Surly is the price difference and slightly better components. However, I want to use this as my back up bike so comfort may be a tipping factor. :confused:

I loved my steel Fuji frame, wish I had kept her for this.