What kind of bike do you ride/want?

[Dogmama]

I've decided it's pretty ridiculous to fire up the SUV for small trips to the store or even going out to the gym. I have a nice road bike and a FS MTB that won't take fenders (and it too heavy/bulky to ride long distances). So, I'm thinking about getting a commuter but I'm totally clueless about brands & what to look for.

I need something I can put a good sized rack & baskets or panniers on, so it needs to be fairly durable. I'd also like to ride 8 miles to my favorite gym, (some big hills) so I'd like it to be "ridable" if you know what I mean.

I'm thinking this might be a good time to buy because there are lots of end of year sales going on. So, my question is - what are you riding & do you like it / and/or what would you like to ride? I'd like to keep it under $700 if possible.

Thanks!

[indysteel]

I don't have a dedicated commuter, but If I were in your shoes, I would look at Kona and Jamis. Each have several models that would serve your purpose and that are relatively inexpensive.

[redrhodie]

I'd get a mixte because of ease of getting on and off with a rack and panniers. When I'm carrying a lot of stuff on my 'cross bike (which is my commuter/errand/winter bike), it's awkward getting my leg over the top of the panniers, especially if they're full and heavy. It would be nice to not have to tip the bike to get off.

[Tri Girl]

Good for you!!! Trade in the SUV for an SUB.
I do like Kona and Jamis both. If you have an REI nearby, the Novara bikes are pretty nice, too. I've had my eye on the Transfer. http://www.rei.com/product/808786/novara-transfer-bike-2012
Easy mount, internal 7 speed hub, chain guard, fenders, generator hub headlight, etc. Dreamy...
It's got all the bells and whistles you'd need for transportation/errands and it's right at $700. Don't know if the 7 gears would be OK for your hills, tho.

I'd get a mixte because of ease of getting on and off with a rack and panniers. When I'm carrying a lot of stuff on my 'cross bike (which is my commuter/errand/winter bike), it's awkward getting my leg over the top of the panniers, especially if they're full and heavy. It would be nice to not have to tip the bike to get off.

You make a good point! I have an old steel Bianchi Eros that's my commuter/errand bike and when she's fully loaded down, it CAN be hard to kick my leg up and over her full panniers. Which is why I've been dreaming about the Transfer lately...

[Velocivixen]

I have a Trek FX 7.3 hybrid (aluminum) and a Surly Cross Check (steel). They weigh about the same. They both have fenders and can accommodate a rack, etc. The Cross Check is technically a cyclocross bike, but I have kevlar lined smoother commuter tires, fenders, saddlebag, etc.
How much do you want to spend? Do you want a step through frame or would a higher top tube be alright?

[Dogmama]

I have a Trek FX 7.3 hybrid (aluminum) and a Surly Cross Check (steel). They weigh about the same. They both have fenders and can accommodate a rack, etc. The Cross Check is technically a cyclocross bike, but I have kevlar lined smoother commuter tires, fenders, saddlebag, etc.
How much do you want to spend? Do you want a step through frame or would a higher top tube be alright?

I'd like to spend ~$700. I'm not picky about a step through vs a higher top tube.

[radacrider]

...I've had my eye on the Transfer. http://www.rei.com/product/808786/novara-transfer-bike-2012
Easy mount, internal 7 speed hub, chain guard, fenders, generator hub headlight, etc. Dreamy...
It's got all the bells and whistles you'd need for transportation/errands and it's right at $700. Don't know if the 7 gears would be OK for your hills, tho.

That's pretty cool, especially since it comes with so much that you often have to buy in addition to the bike. Depending on the Nexus hub, looks like it should do pretty well with the fixed gearing part being 42x21 (if I read the specs right).