Surly Pacer vs. Cross-Check

[Becky]

I can't speak to either of those bikes, but I have 25s on both of my road bikes. IMO, there's no decrease in speed, but a noticable increase in comfort. The extra volume really takes the edge off and I can run a lower pressure without the risk of pinch flats.

If they'll fit in your frame, slightly bigger tires are worth considering.

[Hi Ho Silver]

I can't speak to either of those bikes, but I have 25s on both of my road bikes. IMO, there's no decrease in speed, but a noticable increase in comfort. The extra volume really takes the edge off and I can run a lower pressure without the risk of pinch flats.

If they'll fit in your frame, slightly bigger tires are worth considering.

I second the above observation and suggestion. I once put 25s on my steel bike and found that it rode like a cadillac compared to the ride with 23s.

[Sky King]

tough choices, I assume you have been on surlybikes.com? Read the information hole.
I only own 1 bike and she does everything except rider rough trails but I don't enjoy rough trails so that is okay. With that said I have contemplated a 26"wheel LHT with some big apple tires for riding rougher dirt roads as my 650b are to narrow (some will crack up at that as they are 32.8) If you want to be able to put racks on consider the Cross Check over the Pacer

[Kubla]

It's likely I'll get one or the other Surly eventually. That decision will then determine which of my current bikes I sell. Right now I'm leaning toward the CC for its versatility-which will likely edge out the Coda Sport.

If putting 25 cm tires on the Dolce will make a noticeable difference in the handling I'll certainly consider it, as the bike is a joy to ride-on decent roads. (Thank you to those who shared their personal experience of a relatively minor tire width change. It helps to know this could be an improvement in that area.)

I'm in my late 50s; breakneck speeds are not something I'm striving for at this stage of life...mainly looking for overall comfort for the occasional long ride. I do want to have more than one bike for different situations, and 30-50 miles will be a goal as my fitness improves. I'm overweight-but in good health. Bicycling has proven to be a great exercise choice for me.

A rear rack is somewhat important when considering the new bike; I often like to carry a few extra things. I know the CC is up for that task (and more!), but it does help to hear what others have done with these two models.

[Bethany1]

The cheapest thing to do is buy wider tires and see how it goes from there as it does add stability.

The CC is a great bike from the test ride I had in the parking lot. I enjoyed the Long Haul Trucker as well. Only reason I didn't buy the CC was I had purchased the Salsa Fargo as it had disc brakes and was more of an off road bike.

I think the CC is in blue right now....

[Becky]

I'm thinking that the Pacer isn't drilled to accept a rack, though there are probably workarounds. That said, what about a larger seat bag, something like a Carradice bag or a Detours D2R rear bag? My Bianchi won't take a rack, so I've been looking at these types of bags instead.