Gushing about my commuter

[ShadyLady]

Here's an updated photo of my bike, now with the Topeak child seat. I thought it'd be helpful to post a review of sorts for others trying to decide between seat options.

When I was actually pedaling I much preferred the iBert Safety Seat. The bike felt sportier and more agile with the weight up front. However, every time I stopped I felt like I was going to tip over, b/c on my bike there wasn't room for me to hop off the saddle, so instead I had to lean the bike over and catch myself with my foot. My commute involves some stop lights, etc. so I eventually decided I felt unsteady and unsafe enough that I would try the back seat (luckily I bought both seats from places with great return policies).

If my bike felt like a station wagon before, with the back seat it felt like a minivan. Kind of unwieldy and cumbersome, but solid and safe. I've decided to stick with this set up. The panniers on the front help balance out the bike- without them the front wheel feels a little squirrely. I think my son preferred the front seat for the excitement-factor, but he also seems more relaxed and comfortable on the back seat (even if the view is boring!).

Anyway, thought the comparison might help.

[Melalvai]

Great review, thanks.
I hadn't thought of the problem that the iBert would prevent you from dismounting properly. That seems like incredibly poor design!

[TrekDianna]

I commute sometimes with my Trek 7.3FX WSD disc and I love it. I don't get to do it as often as I like since I have a 13 mile one way and various work related events after work.