new bike needed - what shall I get?

[ms pepperpot]

well, I'm now even more confused. I've just got back from the bike shop. It seems that the cross-check is probably too big for me. The 46 frame was too big. Unfortunately they didn't have a 42 in stock, which may be ok, but there's a possibility that the geometry would mean it's still wouldn't fit that well.

But, they had 42 and 46 LHT frames in, which both fitted (a pity there's not a 44). I had discounted the idea of the LHT, partly because of it only having 26" tyres in smaller frames and I wasn't sure I wanted to go for a full touring option. now it seems that it may be a better bike for me (plus better colours).

any thoughts?

[Blueberry]

My only concern would be the lack of really narrow tires for 26" wheels. I think 32c is about as narrow as you'll get. If wider tires don't bother you (they will give you a better ride on rough streets), then I'd go for the LHT. Lots of folks to brevets and other really long rides on them, so they can't be that slow/heavy

The Cross Check does have a very long top tube for the frame size (as do most cross bikes).

CA

[sfa]

I only ride a touring bike, so I can't offer much comparison, but the reason it's my only bike (for now, I keep saying) is because I was doing the same search as you about four months ago--riding a clunky hybrid and wanting something that handled better and was more comfortable, but was good for my commute. Doing the research and shopping around, I kept coming back to touring bikes which really do kinda do everything. So instead of buying new, I refurbished my old bike. If I *had* bought a new bike, it would have been the LHT.

But here's the thing--it's definitely comfy and can carry lots, but I don't know about faster and lighter. It certainly seems faster and lighter to me, but I think that's probably because it's just designed better. I think if I hopped on a sexy road bike I'd realize that my bike is still pretty heavy and slow. OTOH, when I think about replacing it with something lighter, I then think "well, if I want to stop dragging around an extra ten pounds I can lose some weight off my BODY first." And then I load on some new fenders and a rear basket and wonder why I'm worrying about weight at all.

Did you get a chance to ride the LHT? See how it feels to ride it and then decide if it's enough faster/lighter to suit you. I wouldn't worry too much about the 26" wheels--I don't know that makes any significant difference in the ride.

Sarah

[ms pepperpot]

I've heard that's the problem with 26" wheels, and generally less choice on tyres. I have to say I'm a bit clueless on this though. I don't think i'd want super skinny tyres, but still ones that are relatively fast. I'm guessing the tyre itself will determine that too.

The bike shop has frames in both sizes, but none built up as a bike. I'm going to ask them if they will make one up for me to try out.