I'm going to regret this, but...

[psychochicken]

I'm thinking of buying a bike

Comments

[chickenfeet2003]

Go to a good cycle shop rather than a discount store. Explain what you need and take several bikes for a test ride. Buy the one that feels right. You will probably end up with either a hybrid or a comfort/commuter bike. The former is a bit more sporty and good for longer rides if you decide to do that. The latter is geared more to keeping you looking respectable and clean. Not so much of an issue if you can shower and change at work.

I'm not familiar with UK prices but I'm guessing that something around three hundred quid would get something that would work well for you. For example, this, which is the newer version of what I ride, goes for $500 or so here. Also get a helmet, lights and a rack and rear panniers. Panniers are a much better way of carrying stuff than a backpack.

[chickenfeet2003]

And a really good lock!

[f4f3]

And insurance!

[f4f3]

Nice bike!

[chickenfeet2003]

I'm really happy with mine. It copes pretty well with Toronto's none too well maintained streets and tree root infested bike paths. I've bust three spokes I think in something over two years which I might not have done with a heavier mountain bike but I think that's an OK tradeoff for a much lighter bike.

[psychochicken]

So the hybrid's significantly lighter than a full mountain bike then? Only that could clinch it.

[f4f3]

Definitely worth doing a pick-it-up test, since that's when it matters, especially if you're lifting it up and down stairs. Riding around it won't make a lot of difference, since most of the weight's in the saddle-pedals interface...

[chickenfeet2003]

If you compare the Globe Vienna with Specialized's entry level mountain bike the Rockhopper you'll get the idea. The Vienna has an Al frame vs. Chro-Mo. It doesn't have front suspension and it has 700 x 35c tires vs.26 x 2.0" on the Rockhopper. So, lighter and slightly bigger but narrower wheels all of which adds up to a bit less effort traded off against a certain loss of robustness. It's a tradeoff I took and am happy with but f4f3 might argue the other way.

[f4f3]

Not hugely - I tend to do more off road, which was the clincher for me. For commuting light is good!

[psychochicken]

And Evans have it. It does look nice. Decently built, not too flashy.

http://www.evanscycles.com/products/globe/vienna-3-2010-hybrid-bike-ec019554

[f4f3]

You probably want a medium or large frame - I go for a 17.5 inch. Evans will fit you out with the right size though.

[chickenfeet2003]

I'm riding a 55cm frame. I think the rule of thumb is go 5cm larger on a hybrid or road bike than you would on a mountain bike. I'm 1.84m tall.

[psychochicken]

I'm maybe an inch taller, if that, so that's a good guide.