Commuting to work....choices choices

[Houlio]

Hi,
i have a bout a 5 mile commute each way to the office, but am also keen to cycle more at the weekends, i have always had MTB's but even with slick tyres they are a slog in heavy traffic, but i dont much like the idea of going rodie - lycra clad, arse in the air...

after much surfing i think the best option is one of these hybrid bikes, MTB frame and 700cc wheels.
the best options look like the Kona Dew of or the Cannondale bad boy, looking to spend 500 - 650

What are these like, any other suggestions?

thanks,

[Black5]

I believe you can get the Bad Boy with front suspension and can fit either 700c or 26" mtb wheels too.

Apparently the best of both worlds.

Probably more like great road bike with enough off road ability for light trails.

[Houlio]

hmmm, sounds like a plan, the headshock pushes the price up to 1150, but comes with loads of nice kit.
i think i am going to plum for the 650 badboy, upgrade the breaks to Derore hydrologic disks and add some time atac pedals.

comes to 850

you had any experience with this kit?

[WeirdNeville]

Cannondale Bad boys are very nice. you don't say where your commute is though? do you have any major hills, is it open roads or urban cycling?

Definitely get out and ride the Dr Dew and the Bad boy, both are great bikes designed for your needs. Be aware of theft tho' - both are highly desirable bikes so unless you have secure storage at both ends of the journey you might want ot get somethign a bit more discreet.

[Houlio]

my commute is in London, some fast roads, some heavy traffic. yes scurity is a worry, so i have bought a fat D lock and will get insured to the hilt.

thanks for the advice

[PomBstard]

I've got a pair of Serfas Barista slicks - 1.25" x 26" - fit straight onto the Mavic 117 rims on my Giant XTC. Can be pumped to 100psi and cost a grand total of c.GBP40 for tyres and tubes. Been pretty reliable set up for the last year and a half.

When you want to play off road, just change the tyres - no farting around with frames, forks or other nonsense.