Hooray for Fantasy Football winnings...
...A significant contribution has been made to my bike fund! Way to go, hubby!
About a year and a half ago, I got a Trek 5000 and had a blast on it. Five months ago, I had my first baby girl...so that means I'm going to "need" a bike that will be a bit more sturdy for pulling my sweet little Sylvie in a trailer next spring.
I'm lusting after a Salsa Casseroll - here's a fun review - http://www.pezcyclingnews.com/?pg=fullstory&id=5536
I'm also considering a Surly Long Haul Trucker...they're a bit more affordable.
I don't have a big budget, probably about $1500, and I know I want steel. Surly and Salsa both have local (Mpls) ties so they're very alluring. (The Salsa is the one making my heart go pitter-pat though...haven't ridden either yet.) I will be pulling the little one, doing some longer country rides (paved roads and hard-packed trails), getting groceries, recreational club rides, etc. The Trek will relegated to multisport events (if that's what people call what I hope to do next summer).
Anyone with advice/insight/experience on either of these bikes or recommendations for others to try? I know the Jamis Aurora is out there and very nice. I feel pretty confident about it, but am busting to talk to someone who "gets" how exciting this is.
Anyone?
My Experience...for what it's worth
I picked up a Casseroll Triple in September, so I only have about 400 miles on it, but so far, I'm a very happy camper. The geometry isn't exactly right for me (apparently, I'm cursed with oddly long femurs), so on longer rides, my neck & shoulders seem to fatigue a bit. It is the perfect bike for my commute and nasty-weather rides which have pretty much been the norm since I got the bike. The component group is a great value. I have added a rack & panniers, and the bike carries the load very well. Feels very stable going down hill, and has plenty of gears for me to push a heavy load up hill. My LBS has their inventory marked down a couple hundred dollars under the list price, but I had to order my size, so paid full price. Anyhow...you might be able to find one on closeout. The bike is really well made, and I'd take a good steel bike over a comparably priced aluminum bike any day...I just like the feel of the ride. Also, it sure is pretty!
I have no experience with them, but I have heard good things about the Long Haul Trucker. A friend's father has done several long tours, including Seattle to San Francisco, on his with no complaints. My LBS guy has a personal preference for the Salsa-line over the Surlys...but had nothing bad to say about Surly, either.
Get what fits you & your budget the best. I don't think you'll regret either decision.
d.
