Bike Recommendation: For around town use

[LR Max]

Hi all,

So I've got my go-fast road bike and my mountain bike but I am finding the need for an around town bike. Currently I either take my road or my mountain bike to the grocery store, or to pick up whatever at Advance auto or to Ace, etc. It sucks having to carry extra shoes and not having a rack on either of these bikes. Basically with my current bikes, using them to run errands is a big production.

I'm beginning to look at an "around town" bike. Flat pedals, rear rack with big dumb panniers on it, etc. Something that I can jump on and go get 2 growlers of beer (yes 2, gotta keep it balanced :elkgrin without having a backpack on. Ok I know I'll have to check the tires regularly but minimal maintenance otherwise. Hence the belt and internal rear hub. Also no awesome grease marks on my leg or pants.

Originally I was looking at a brand new Trek Soho Deluxe, but Trek is very proud of this bike, wanting A LOT of money. I'm talking four figures here. I do like the belt drive and internal rear hub, rear rack, disc brakes, and fenders. I like the bike but I'm wondering if I can get a cheaper alternative that'll fill my needs. At the same time I wonder what quality that alternative will be and if I'm buying quality here.

What I don't want is a fixie or a single speed. I've got a fixie right now and it isn't working for this application (anyone need a vintage fixie??)

Does anyone have any other recommendations for a decent bike that is belt drive, internal gear hub rear, fenders, and rear rack? Currently I'm thinking of getting something else and outfitting it with the fenders, rear rack, etc. I was at performance bike yesterday and I like the prices of the bikes, I just question the quality. I have had good luck with Trek, hence the brand loyalty but at this time I'm willing to start looking at other things.

Not looking to build a bike. I built my mountain bike and it has been nothing but a pain in the rear. Its like my old rover, always needing SOMETHING. I bought my road bike brand new and it just goes. Few problems.

Thanks for the suggestions!

 

[ThomD]

Check out REI. http://www.rei.com/product/808783/novara-fusion-bike-2012 No belt drive, but otherwise it looks like a good match.

 

[FurthurOnTheFly]

Check out the Xtracycle kits. I built one up for myself last year and I'm very happy with it. I picked up a used 1990's steel mountain bike off craigslist for $75 that was pretty much in new condition, bought the kit and added some new tires. Total build was about $750 and it is the most fun bike I have to ride. I've even taken it out on some local long distance events because its so fun and comfortable. Not to mention I can stop and bring home all the groceries I need in it, or pretty much anything else.

 

[bucketosudz]

There are lots of options out there from buying road/tour bike and adding fenders and racks to cargo bikes.

I like Surly's myself and have a Surly Big Dummy in my sights but it is not a cheaper option nor is a Yuba Mundo which would be my second choice. I will list a few names that you could give a look at, maybe they will give you some additional ideas.

Surly Big Dummy
Yuba Mundo V4
Yuba Mundo BodaBoda
Kona Ute
Surly Disc Trucker
Sycip Bike
Ahearne Cycles
Torker Cargo T
Norco Bikes-Norco Ceres (Belt Drive)
SOMA Bikes
Civia Bryant

 

[keezer37]

Gotta admit, my Trek hybrid has been pretty much maintenance free in three years of use. Tires and a bottom bracket is all it needed. Not that that stopped me. Moreover, after buying other brand parts, I'm inclined to go back to Bontrager for future needs.

What of the Soho (sans Deluxe) and adding a rack. Gets you closer to your price point for giving up disc brakes for a maint free roller.

 

[LR Max]

What of the Soho (sans Deluxe) and adding a rack. Gets you closer to your price point for giving up disc brakes for a maint free roller.

Indeed giving up disc brakes but then I basically get drum brakes, which I do not like. I love how bike disc brake pads are easy to replace. Heck even if they had standard rim brakes I would be super happy with it.

Thanks for the other suggestions. Will take a firm look at those models!

 

[EMrider]

I was in a similar situation. Had a purpose built MTB, and wanted a utility bike that could do many things. Cargo capacity, simplicity and flexibility were key considerations. After much research, I bought a Surly Troll. Costs about $1300 for a complete build. This is the ideal utility or post apocalypse bike. MTB geometry, steel frame, strong 26" wheels, rack/trailer compatibility, BB7s, Deore drivetrain..........

It is very comfy to ride and I'm enjoying racking up the miles.

R

 

[phsycle]

Holy crap, all this for a beater townie bike? Just browse the local CL and find a early to mid-90's rigid MTB (ie. Specialized Rockhopper) for $100, slap on slicks and go ride. No heartache if it gets stolen or scratched. Year ago, I bought an older Scott for the exact same purpose and it's been great. Keep the chain clean and my pant legs have been grease-free. Not that I wear pants when I'm out riding around anyway. (Even in the winter).