Civia Bryant, anyone tried?

[seraye]

Hi there,

I don't have a Civia Bryant, but I do ride a Gunnar Fastlane custom built for me that has geometry and specs that are very very similar to the Bryant. It is a wonderful commuter because it fits rack, fenders, and fat tires very well. I love the disc brakes for riding in the wet and snow, they do get loud when its wet, but they always stop on a dime, and I can absolutely depend on them to work in nasty weather. On the downside, the bike is a little heavy, as will be the Bryant, but it just means that it's more stable carrying panniers full of groceries. As for fit, I can tell you (because I also happen to work at a bike shop and I fit women all the time) it's gonna be close for you. I can't say that it will or won't work, but yes, you'll probably want to try it out. As for the Jamis Quest, I happen to sell that brand too, and it's a different type of bike all together, not even the same animal, it won't take fat tires, or carry heavy loads very well, and it certainly doesn't come with disc brakes. I don't recommend it for a commuter because it lacks versatility, but it will make a nice sporty frame for long rides or credit card touring.

What I do recommend: check out the Salsa Vaya, Surly Long Haul Trucker, and Gunnar Fastlane (with Gunnar, you will want a custom build, and I recommend building around 26" or 650b wheels). The Fastlane will be the most expensive , but if you commute a lot in inclement weather, it's a very sensible investment.