Bike type choices

[Zen]

After riding with Tam, I second (or third or fourth) the cross bike. That front fork suspension is sweet.

I'd kinda like one myself.

[Kalidurga]

After riding with Tam, I second (or third or fourth) the cross bike. That front fork suspension is sweet.

The TriCross doesn't really have suspension, it (like some of Specialized's road bikes) has Zertz inserts in the front fork that really do smooth out the ride. I don't have the option of commuting, but it's certainly been great for everything else I've done with it, and it's set up to take a rack and fenders. And they've put a triple chainring on the newer models (mine's a compact). The TriCross may not be as sexy as a Volpe, but it's slick and sturdy

If/when I begin thinking of getting a new bike, I might consider a touring bike, but I'd most likely go for a 'cross bike again. Their versatility is just fantastic. In a way, it seems as if 'cross bikes are becoming the new hybrid.

[Zen]

Now you've got me looking at Thudbusters

[bikerHen]

[QUOTE=Kalidurga;220942]The TriCross doesn't really have suspension, it (like some of Specialized's road bikes) has Zertz inserts in the front fork that really do smooth out the ride. I don't have the option of commuting, but it's certainly been great for everything else I've done with it, and it's set up to take a rack and fenders. And they've put a triple chainring on the newer models (mine's a compact). The TriCross may not be as sexy as a Volpe, but it's slick and sturdy.[QUOTE]

If I may ask, what model Tricross do you have? I'm thinking that's what I'm going to get, but am real torn between the Sport and Comp. bikerHen

[Kalidurga]

If I may ask, what model Tricross do you have? I'm thinking that's what I'm going to get, but am real torn between the Sport and Comp. bikerHen

I got the 2006 Sport model. I didn't know much about bikes at that point and I had a bunch of accessories to buy, so I went for the less expensive model. The Comp has more Zertz inserts, an 11-34 cog set, and better rims. If I knew then what I know now, I probably would have sprung for the Comp instead. For 2007, though, they changed both the Sport and the Comp from a compact chainring to a triple. I prefer the compact, but I'd love to have that 11-34 cog set. The TriCross Expert with an 11-34 would be awesome, but it's just way out of my price range.

[kfergos]

I recently switched to a mountain bike with slicks on it to a cyclocross bike, (28 mm slicks) and I've never looked back. A cyclocross is versatile, tough but comfortable, and lets you go fast on occasion as well. I've received many admiring comments on my cross bike, so I too recommend considering a cross. Just avoid disc brakes if you do choose one -- they're more hassle than they're worth!

[Beane]

If you have a Jamis dealer in the area and go to check out the Commuter, you should also look at the "Coda" line of bikes. They're perfect for commuting, steel (soo comfy), and well spec'd for the price. This spring I got an '05 Coda Sport on mega clearance and have been quite happy with it (though I've upgraded several things, that's probably because I'm a gearhead and not because the bike needed it). The other nice thing is that there are several different Codas, ranging from about $450 to over $1500.

On another note, I test rode a bike once with a thudbuster and it was awesome! I can't really justify one for the price since my route isn't particularly bumpy, but the thudbuster was not even in the same category as "normal" suspension posts.

[anaphase]

I have the Jamis Commuter and I really like it for errands and trips under 10 miles.

The good:

• Easy to put a rack and pannier/trunk bags on it
• VERY adjustable in the handlebar/stem
• Nice upright riding position
• Wheels and tires feel a bit more substantial than my road bike, so I'm not as scared of potholes and road debris, which are a part of my commute for sure.
• Shifts like a dream
• Fun to ride, and very easy to ride (good control)

The not so good:

• It's heavy. 10 lbs heavier than the road bike, so it's slow.
• The fenders are junk.
• Um... that's all I can think of.

[KnottedYet]

If/when I begin thinking of getting a new bike, I might consider a touring bike, but I'd most likely go for a 'cross bike again. Their versatility is just fantastic. In a way, it seems as if 'cross bikes are becoming the new hybrid.

I've been thinking how much cyclocross bikes seem like the good ol' road bikes we had in the 1970's!