2016 Liv Flourish 2 Available In US This Fall

[Lelani Carver]

My next "n + 1" bike was going to be some kind of utility bike in the European style with upright positioning, baskets or panniers, fenders, and lights.

This would be an off-season or foul weather bike for errands, lunch runs, grocery shopping. The important thing is the ability to ride in street clothing and shoes, no time needed to gather gear and get changed. I'll be selling my current n + 1 bike, a Spec Crossroads Sport step-thru. Not a good fit, I have to admit, and upgrading/refitting it isn't worth the cost for an uncomfortable ride.

Starting in late August I'll have a 2-hour lunch so daytime riding in mild weather is possible, but lights are needed for rides after work (I can reach a great local store easily and safely, day or night).

I was looking seriously at a used 2011 Detour Deluxe (too big, the LBS guy says) or a new Trek Allant (WSD or men's frame). Both of these had fenders and rear rack, and the DD had Dynamo hub lighting. A basic MTB with aftermarket fenders/rack/battery lights could be put together inexpensively, too.

Many of the PUBLIC bikes look good and might work, and the time is right for sale prices on 2015 models. I'd have to go into the city to test ride one, though. On the other hand, internal gearing for an off-season bike makes sense.

http://www.ecovelo.info/2011/02/12/r...detour-deluxe/

http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes...tility/allant/

http://bffbikes.com/public/

BUT: a bike I've had my eye on for months is coming this fall to the US; the LIV Flourish 2.


http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/...2/22227/83998/

It's got fenders, decent gearing, a basket, lighting, a chain guard, upright riding position... All it needs is a rear rack. I can test ride it soon at my favorite LBS or at Chicago's BFF bike shop.

It's not as girly as the LIV Suede (one of which also has lighting) but it has really nice detailing. What do you think? MSRP is in my price range, about $580 US. Maximum weight is 300 lbs. per the UK site, so it can handle some Athena riders without needing upgraded wheels.

What do you think?

[rebeccaC]

For a city/commuter an internal hub was my choice (nexus 8 speed) and it’s worked very well for my needs. For foul weather it would be even better!

The Linus Dutchi 8 is a little more than you want to spend (end of year prices could be better) but it’s a very well made bike ….the dealer locator shows a number of dealers in Chicago. You might look at one and see what you think.