Quote Originally Posted by ehirsch83 View Post
For those with the longer commutes what are you riding?
I am looking for a commuter to get to and from school(about 18.5 miles each way) and I am pretty much decided on a single speed(flip flop hub) felt with flat bars. I am a roadie, will I get tired of the flat bars? or will adding bar ends keep me happy?
advice advice please!! I am in love with the bike and am ordering it once I get paid for some stuff I just sold.

http://feltracing.com/08/product.asp...,1525&pid=8717

I really like the idea of the single speed, and it is lighter so it won't be to heavy plus I think with carry a bag, being a little more upright will be more comfy then in drops.

THe other thing I really like is that nothing on it is quick release, so I am not scared to lock it up at school.

any opinions would be greatly appreciated.
I think that single speed is really smart for a commuter bike. My DH won't use a geared bike in the winter because of all the dirt, sand, etc. I assume you don't have as much road muck in winter, but not having to do all the maintenance associated with a geared bike would be a nice plus.

As far as the flat bars, I agree with GLC that it would be really easy (and cheap) to switch if you didn't like them. You could also easily try moustache bars if you felt so inclined. I am in the process of converting my commuter to drop bars and STI shifters, and its definitely a more involved and expensive process.