Choosing a bike, part 2

[LovelyGirl]

Hi All,

I had posted a thread previously about getting a road bike either to complement or replace my Trek 7.6FX. I started with the idea of getting a Specialized Dolce, then decided against it as the aluminum frame and the components were the same as my Trek's. I set my sights on a Specialized Ruby next, because the frame and components were better/different, and because I can then have a nice, comfortable bike for long rides next year when both boys are in school. One family bike and one bike just for me, right?

Well.

Then I read lots of threads about steel. I am sold, Girls, sold. I want a smoother ride but like sturdiness. I don't need/want to go racer-fast (though I'm not a fan of slow, either). I want to tow things without worrying about carbon. I love the delicate look of thin, steel-lugged frames.

Honestly, I'm never going to be a racer. I don't want the outfits or the clipless pedals or to become really focused on cadence or timing or any of that. Cyclists that do are SO cool, and I admire their dedication and skills immensely. But I'm a recreational and practical rider with two little kids. And after further study, I just really want a great do-everything bike. A bike that goes all around town, on long rides, will tow a Tag-a-long, give me a buttery smooth ride and will last for years. Steel seems to be the answer to my complicated situation.

I stumbled across Grant Petersen's book Just Ride and I really identified with what he was saying. Well, you know where that led me - to his very expensive Rivendell Bike site. In record time, I fell in love with his Sam Hillborne steel beauty. Sigh. Considering that it is such an expensive bike, I would probably sell my Trek and just have the Sam for my do-it-all bike. IF I get the nerve to plunk down the money at all. My husband is horrified at the thought and will take a bit of sweet-talking. But it can be done.

I live 6 hours from the Rivendell store, so will need to plan a trip to go up and test ride and investigate. So I can't answer as to whether I actually find the bikes a good fit and choice for me. I'm still doing the most preliminary of ground work.

Anyway, back to you. I realize there is a BIG difference between racing bikes and the retro-type bikes from Riv, and I have swung wildly from one to the other in the past week. I would love the opinion of anyone who cares to comment on whether or not such an expensive steel bike is a good choice for someone like me. Given what I've said about my riding, would a Rivendell bike be preferable? If you weren't a racer and could only have one bike, would a Rivendell bike be a logical choice for you? Or would you go a different route?

Thanks in advance for all your input. Means a lot to newbies.

[thekarens]

I can't be of any help, but I did want to say I love my steel Jamis Quest. It makes a great road bike and it can be fitted with paniers if I ever want that.

[tulip]

Rivendell's are indeed beautiful bikes, and I don't want to discourage you if that's the route you want to take. But I will just say that there are plenty of bikes that are in the middle-ground between your Trek FX and the Rivendell. Jamis makes some very nice steel bikes. You could also look at Breezers (Villager, Greenway), Linus, Public, Trek, Soma...I mean, there are tons of choices. But by all means, if you want to go for the Rivendell and it won't take food or shelter away from your family, go for it.

[indysteel]

Rivendell's are indeed beautiful bikes, and I don't want to discourage you if that's the route you want to take. But I will just say that there are plenty of bikes that are in the middle-ground between your Trek FX and the Rivendell. Jamis makes some very nice steel bikes. You could also look at Breezers (Villager, Greenway), Linus, Public, Trek, Soma...I mean, there are tons of choices. But by all means, if you want to go for the Rivendell and it won't take food or shelter away from your family, go for it.

This. I love steel and Rivendells are beautiful, but before I paid a premium for a Rivendell or any other boutique bike, I'd want to be very sure of what works for my body and for the kind of riding I do. And if I was going to spend that kind of money on a frame, I'd at least investigate other builders. For that kind of money, I'd probably go full custom, but I have a tricky body to fit (short legs but relatively long femurs, long torso but relatively short arms). But, as Tulip said, there are other off-the-rack options out there that may serve your needs just fine. I have two off the rack steel bikes, a Bianchi roadie and a Jamis Aurora. Surly, Soma, and Salsa have some interesting offerings, too.

As for the cost of a Rivendell (or any custom bike), don't underestimate how much it costs to build up a bike. Between components, wheels, racks, etc., it can add up. Ask me how I know......

[emily_in_nc]

As for the cost of a Rivendell (or any custom bike), don't underestimate how much it costs to build up a bike. Between components, wheels, racks, etc., it can add up. Ask me how I know......

So true. I got a great deal on a carbon Aegis Swift frame and fork, never built up, on ebay. Paid $699. By the time I was done, I had around $3500 in the bike, all told. Of course I did splurge on a few things -- like Campy Chorus group, which was lovely. But yes, even things like pedals and saddle can cost a bundle these days. And shop labor if you can't DIY.

[LovelyGirl]

Of course you girls are so right! I will check out some of the brands that you suggested.

Before I read this, I had called Rivendell to inquire of price, and it looks like $2700 with tax included if I went for the Sam Hillborne. I already have the Brooks. Not sure what componentry but chose the "classic build." I don't think I'd go custom because I have a small stroke imagining that much commitment. Maybe down the road if/when the bike becomes a piece of my heart. I do have the funds, but I am reluctant to give them over without knowing if the bike is THAT GOOD. It sounds like it is according to online opinion. But what of I'm not a Rivendell rider? I was seriously considering a Ruby last week, for Pete's sake! If someone could tell me, "Listen, you get that Riv and it'll be the best ride of your life and worth every sweet penny you pay and will last for 20 years and you'll never, ever look back" then I'd jump in the car and make the trek right now! Actually, no, I'd start convincing my husband and THEN I'd jump in the car! But if you steel owners believe the other steel bikes to be as good and enjoyable, then I really should check those out too.