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Which bike to buy...
Ok, so when I started out I wanted a cruiser bike for fun Sunday strolls, but then I started looking at bikes and want 1 of every kind! Unfortunately, funds won't support my newest addiction so it's just the 1 bike to purchase...Problem is that I'm torn between my original intent and something that deviates from my that. Here's where I stand:
A.) Torker Cruiser (step through) - 3spd with Nexus internal gears, coaster break, rack (front and back), and pretty as all heck. I like that this bike because it rides smooth, exemplifies what I originally wanted and has the internal hub system.
B.) Fuji Hybrid (step through) - 8spd with Shimano derailleur external shifters, skinny tires, and flat handle bars. I like that I can get more versatile riding out of this bike, but don't like that it doesn't have the look or feel of the torker and it has 3 gears on the front wheel and 5 on the back so there's lots of wires (which I can deal with if it's actually better that way?)
Where I'm having difficulty is deciding how much riding can I get out of the cruiser around town before I pull my hair out with only three gears? I'm not an avid rider....yet so, I just need an outsider's opinion.
If I get the Torker chances are that in a few months time I might buy a used road bike....arg decisions decisions
Please help me with my indecision, THANKS~~
Doug
You stated exactly what my thoughts were out loud!
Recumbent bikes are too laid back for me...I'm VERY athletic and would be bored with something so relaxed. I do like the easy ride of a hybrid and the versatility for various courses.
We have a winner!!!!
THX
Just because you're in a reclining position doesn't mean they're "laid back" as in mellow. They can go just as fast as upright bikes -- and even faster for some types. It all depends on what sort you get -- they vary just as much as upright bikes.
The bike he was referring to is still a pretty standard upright bike, but the pedals are moved forward and the seat back so you're reclined somewhat.
But they do tend to be more expensive.
Ultimately, unless you have a specific need (back problems, numb hands or crotch, etc.), or just want to try something different, go with the standard bikes. But do try recumbents -- they're fun too (I ride them occasionally. My fastest bike is a recumbent.)
Wow, excellent information.
Much appreciated!
I'm assuming you're in Austin.
Austin is pretty hilly. Internal gears are nice, but three really isn't enough for a place like this. Really, it's more about the range of gears rather than the number of gears, but most three speed hubs don't have that large of a range.
Hybrids are likely the most versatile bikes out there -- they're good on the road, and on fairly flat trails too. The only bike more versatile would be a mountain bike with slick tires.
Are these bikes new or used? Used, you can find great deals on Craigslist if you know what you're looking for and keep looking.
New, Performance Bike (Fuji is one of their house brands) has specials on bikes all the time. Day after Thanksgiving they'll usually do 20% off, but 10% off happens once a month or so, 15% off a few times a year, etc.
Simpler is generally better.
So my vote goes to the Torker.
It seems you're looking for a comfortable cruiser.
Perhaps a semi-recumbent would work for you.
http://www.crankforward.com/
Take a test ride at Easy Street Recumbents.
http://www.easystreetrecumbents.com/
I got my mom an Electra Townie. The quality is a bit low, but I like the comfort.