Commuter Purchase Dillema

[Trek420]

I'm having trouble justifying spending $400 on a bike that is going to be left outside to be rained on/snowed on, etc. I know I would use it and I currently live and will move to a place where I can store it inside while at home.

OK, now I'm confused. You currently live in and will move to a place where you can have the bike inside when at home.

And you say you might be able to keep the bike inside at work. Why would it be outside in the snow?

Keep your bike inside Rain, snow, salt if they salt the roads .... all the enemy of your bike. Sure, you can leave it outside but much more work and cost to keep it in shape.

1) How do you keep your commuting bike in good shape?

I keep it inside Also regular routine maintenance, cleaning & lube, lube and clean. A tune up about once a year.

2) Did you replace the stock saddle on your commuter bike?

Yes. But the ancient POS saddle the bike came with was comfy. I kept it for 10 years. Finally began wearing out so I replaced the seat and seatpost.

3) I'm considering an spd/platform pedal (spd on one side, platform on the other).

That's what I use on the commuter, good choice My freewheel has BMX pedals. I love them. If I was replacing the pedals on the commuter or had another commuter, that's what I'd get.

4) Is the maintenance cost for a commuter bike comparable to that of a road bike?

Yeah. I think so. A good bike is a good bike