Bike for medium touring/commuting

[blackhillsbiker]

I want a comfortable (fairly relaxed geometry but not absolutely upright) steel bike for commuting and eventual touring. It will always carry a load, not always a really heavy one. Racks, panniers, lights, fenders, Brooks saddle... I've been looking at Luna Cycles. Anyone tour on one of these? It will also replace my Dew for commuting. I love the Dew but I'm tired of the jarring I get with all the cracks on the trail and uneven pavement around here.

I've started a bike fund. Any thoughts?

Deb

[Eden]

Lunas are custom, so you give her your list of wishes and Margo provides (well as long as you don't ask for something outrageous, like say a 15lb racer than can do fully loaded touring on its off days....). It's not really like they have a set geometry or type of use.

[blackhillsbiker]

This will be my 50th birthday present. I'm so excited. It'll take me from now until then to save for it.

Deb

[Dog]

I'm also thinking of picking up a touring bike. I have a Bianchi Velochi that can handle some weight, but I know I will need a sturdier bike for some of the touring I'm dreaming about. I'm going to look at Surley, Trek and Cannondale bikes.

[KnottedYet]

Dog, if you want a really cozy and intimate bike shopping experience, visit Free Range Cycles for the Surly test rides. (and check out Soma bikes while you're there)

Tiny (TINY) woman-owned shop, two wrenches. They only have room for maybe 3 customers inside the shop at a time. Most of the bikes are outside under the eaves, which is how anyone can fit inside the shop at all.

The woman who owns the shop is great to talk to, and she really knows bikes. She totally understands velo love. If you want to try, say, a Surly Cross Check but you know the saddle on it will kill yer butt, she will let you switch out the saddle (and the pedals if you bring them) for the test ride.

The wrenches are nice guys, very relaxed and a little goofy. They are bike nerds, and I love them.

www.freerangecycles.com

And after your ride you can go across the street to Theo's and eat chocolate!

[Dog]

Thanks KnottedYet. I plan to check out the store - soon! All I've done is work since my mini tour ride last September, so it is time to reward myself.

[blackhillsbiker]

Made a contribution to the bike fund today. I've been doing a lot of research. Luna still keeps rising to the top of the list. Besides, being able to choose the color would be really cool!

Deb

[SLash]

I'm also thinking of picking up a touring bike. I have a Bianchi Velochi that can handle some weight, but I know I will need a sturdier bike for some of the touring I'm dreaming about. I'm going to look at Surley, Trek and Cannondale bikes.

Good choices, you might want to check out the Jamis Aurora or Aurora Elite. I bought the Elite last year and love it, a couple of TE members have the Aurora too. Nice bike at a nice price.

[Dog]

Thanks Slash - I'll add the Aurora to the list. I still haven't had time to look other than visit web sites. I definitely plan to purchase before next spring! Christmas is coming.....