Renovating older hybrid, worth it?

[Dianyla]

Popoki, I've never had the bike fitted professionally, but comparing the frame dimensions to my new road bike (that fits perfectly) I can see that the frame is too tall, and the top tube too long. I could work around some of that with stem sizes, but not much.

If the only part that is keepable isn't quite right... it doesn't sound like it's a keeper.

You've just hit the nail on the head. I guess I just needed to hear someone else say it? Thanks!

Have you ridden newer bikes? There's a lot of good, new technology. You could even get a newer used one.

My main motivation with this is that my new racy bike cannot mount any racks or panniers - when I commute I have to carry everything on my back. And while right now I'm enjoying the lovely spring/summer weather, I'd like to start commuting year round and I'm not sure I want to put the precciousssss through daily winter riding. I think I'll just start trolling craigslist or ebay for newer used touring style bikes.

Thanks guys!

[natheless]

I recently tried to get a used hybrid for a commuter, and found that going used wasn't worth the time and effort involved. Seemingly, no one can ever tell you the frame size in advance, and you end up trying out bikes that aren't going to fit, and are going to need substantial investments in terms of new parts, etc. Basically the same story as your old bike, but without the sentimental attachment and knowledge of where it's been!

(Of course, you've got until winter if you don't mind commuting on the road bike for now, so you might have better luck than I did - I got tired of the hunt quickly...)

I guess it depends what your needs and desires are, but if you've already got the fancy road bike, consider just getting an inexpensive new bike...

Good luck!