Opinions and input on new bike choice please

[Bones8]

Thanks for the heads up on the tubes! I think I will put some on my Christmas list

What do you think about these pedals?

http://www.performancebike.com/bikes...400937__400937

I like the option of being able to clip in (which I have never done before) or "go commando" as they say. Here is another that looks like it might be a little grippy on the clipless side. Hard to tell though...

http://www.performancebike.com/bikes...400937__400937

[Owlie]

My only caution with the Crosscheck: They are really nice bikes, and quite versatile, but they're heavy (something to keep in mind if you have to, say, carry it up a flight of stairs or something), and they seem to run really long in the top tube.

As for the pedals, I'd go with the Fortes. They are a little grippier on the platform side, and IIRC they should take Shimano cleats.

[Jolt]

My only caution with the Crosscheck: They are really nice bikes, and quite versatile, but they're heavy (something to keep in mind if you have to, say, carry it up a flight of stairs or something), and they seem to run really long in the top tube.

As for the pedals, I'd go with the Fortes. They are a little grippier on the platform side, and IIRC they should take Shimano cleats.

Don't worry too much about the weight for carrying up stairs etc...I am quite sure that my LHT is heavier than a Cross Check and carrying it up a flight of stairs is really not that big a deal (I routinely carry it up to my second floor apartment and down to the bike co-op in the basement of the community center, and I am a small person). Plus, you can probably carry the Cross Check on your shoulder which should make it a little less awkward (don't try this with the Trucker, the cable stop will dig into your shoulder...ouch!).

[Sky King]

I ride the Shimano A530's and have been for years (same pedals too) Never had any issues with them, plenty of platform and grip when I am riding in a street shoe.
Don't know much about the Forte as it is a performance specific brand but wonder about dirt and mud gunking them up if you found yourself needed to walk but I could be over analyzing