I’ve owned touring bikes for almost 25 years. When it was time to change my ride, I would automatically go for touring. But I must admit that I don’t leave for extended periods as often. And now the time has come. I don’t really need triple chain rings, but I like the possibility of installing racks to carry moderate loads (computer, lunch, extra clothes) when I commute to work. What are my options below $1,000? – Eric Samson, Quebec
A good start: Touring bikes actually make excellent all-around recreation bikes. They typically have comfortable frames, lots of gears, and plenty of braze-ons for attaching fenders, racks, bottles, etc.
Case in point: Trek’s 520 ($1,300), hardly changed in years. Reliable, comfortable steel frame, solid Shimano shifter things that go clink and clank, triple chain ring, etc. A real classic. Too expensive? Fine, buy one that’s a few years old – same bike as you get new.
A sportier choice: Consider a decent cross bike. They sometimes have fittings for fenders and racks, have good all-weather aluminum frames and make good commuting bikes. I use a Fuji Cross Pro ($1,900) as a commuter, and right out of the box it has been great. I did upgrade tires (to Continental Ultra Gatorskins – $40 each) and add a slightly lower-gear crank. Oh, and the stock brake pads completely and utterly stink. Frame rides well, the carbon fork smooths out some bumps. Takes fenders and other add-ons just fine.
Cheaper sibling: Look at the Fuji Cross Comp ($1,400). Same frame, cheaper fittings. Don’t let price alarm you – check with Performance Bike to see what they can do, or look on eBay or Craigs- list.
Another fun bike: Check the Surly Long Haul Trucker ($1,100). More of a classic tourer/heavy commute bike. Steel frame, surprisingly high-end component set, very nice bike. Worth a long look.
To ask a question of the Gear Guy, you can find Douglas Gantenbein at www.outsidemag.com.
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