Thinking About Getting A Bike...

[vixen1700]

But I know nothing about modern bikes at all. So could I please ask for any recommendations/advice

Thinking about the time when I head back into the office, so it'll be a 45 minute ride from East London into the City via the less crowded back routes via Stratford etc.

A quick look on Evans brings this up which has decent reviews:

https://www.evanscycles.com/pinnacle-laterite-1-20...

I know nothing about bikes since having a Raleigh racer back in the '70s, so the brands just leave me --->

Budget £400-£650 or so. New or secondhand, not bothered either way.

Thanks in advance.

[Bacon Is Proof]

Most important thing is fit.

There isn't anything really special about road bikes*, they just get lighter and much more expensive. I have a cheapo (£200ish in the sales) Halfords special bought for commuting which is absolutely fine in all regards, and that Pinnacle will be better in all regards, as long as it fits.

* Get over it.

[vixen1700]

BenjiS said:

Worth checking if your company runs a Cycle 2 Work scheme as well, because that could save you a substantial chunk of money off a new one.

I don't think they do, and as I'm just contracting (extended to at least September), I don't think I'd be eligible anyway.

[Usget]

Tempted by a secondhand Brompton perhaps? If I was commuting from Stratford to the City that's what I'd take. Then you can jump on the DLR if it's stting it down on the way home.

[TCX]

State of roads I'd get a hardtail MTB,run on slicks,gives volume in tyres to deal with rough roads,but fairly lively,Brompton s/h a decent call but....price?

[PushedDover]

vixen1700 said:

BenjiS said:

Worth checking if your company runs a Cycle 2 Work scheme as well, because that could save you a substantial chunk of money off a new one.

I don't think they do, and as I'm just contracting (extended to at least September), I don't think I'd be eligible anyway.

Through your own Ltd Co ? Sign yourself up to Cycle tow Work scheme through your own business, and treat yourself to an E-Bike.
You will resent the commute less.

[dontlookdown]

Pinnacle bikes are reasonable quality for the price. My wife rides a Pinnacle and she likes it.

That looks like a sensible entry-level commuter bike that will do the job and shouldn't fall apart after a month or two.

Low brand appeal and no flashy components means less likely to attract thieves.

If you can get to a shop it does really help you to pick the right size.

I know lots of people love Brommies, but I wouldn't get one unless you really need a bike that folds up as small as poss. They are a v clever design but seriously compromised as bikes. I borrowed one for my own London commute a few years ago - uncomfortable, heavy and the small wheels make them particularly vulnerable to potholes.

[Gio G]

PushedDover said:

Through your own Ltd Co ? Sign yourself up to Cycle tow Work scheme through your own business, and treat yourself to an E-Bike.
You will resent the commute less.

I think this is a good shout.. E-bike for commuting is a no brainer.. I know there are other schemes available like Green Commute Initiative (GCI) will helps with more expensive E-bikes

G

[Bacon Is Proof]

I had a look at some Pinnacle bikes when I was shopping.
Build quality on the frames looked good, certainly better than several more expensive manufacturers.