Grocery bikes for a WSD body?

[newfsmith]

The Swobo Dixon comes in a step-thru frame, and has optional rack and fenders. It has an amazing set up: front & rear disc brakes, and the Sram i-motion 9 IGH all on a very clean looking steel frame. http://www.swobo.com/catalog/product...cPath=201_204#

The geometry looks like the reach is pretty short, but I think you could have it built with their "Hoopty Handlebars" to have the reach come back even more.

I know you are concerned about the weight. 29 lbs is not light, but it will handle the load of a grocery run well. Also consider the advantages of IGH: you can downshift while stopped and you have a nice straight, efficient chainline. As any tandem rider will tell you, disc brakes are great when you are stopping a loaded bike on a hill, and if it is at all wet out, they are the only way to go. Also keep in mind that the added weight of the groceries will make the harsh ride of aluminum more pronounced, steel will dampen that.

If you want to stay with an aluminum frame, at least use a touring frame, perhaps the REI Novarra touring bikes, although you probably would need much shorter stems on either of them, but they would be at the same price point.

Finally, don't forget Craig's list. This is the time of year that many college students are selling lightly used campus bikes. These days, many of them are WSDs and you might be able to pick up a real bargain that would let you preserve your custom frame.

[sgtiger]

I just so happened to come across the this at REI yesterday:

http://www.rei.com/product/774423

I think it'd be perfect. I don't see the weight listed on the site but my guess is that it's around the same weight as the Swobo that newfsmith listed above.

If you need lighter and more gearing than perhaps a Rondonee or light tourer model designed for credit card touring would better fit your needs.

I second craigslist too. In our area, the listings for bikes are really starting to pick up. Maybe you'll luck out and find a Trek 520 or 720 (look for their older head badges, Trek reused the 720 model number); or other vintage tourer.