Light, Fast Commuter Road Bike -- Does It Exist?

[James]

Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:

- actually be a road bike
- eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
- brakes that can clear fenders
- fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
- 700 23 tires
- reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)

Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
( http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg )

I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.

[Patrick Lamb]

On Sat, 18 Aug 2007 18:05:23 -0500, "BobT"
<RobertLeeTaylorCUT@THISSuddenLink.net> wrote:
>
>If you really want an 18 pound bike + fenders, I think a custom built frame
>is going to be the only way to get it. Your 18 pound specification requires
>higher-end lightweight road racing components throughout including
>everything from the saddle to the wheels. I've never seen a bike like this
>(in recent decades) with the frame clearance and brakes to accommodate full
>fenders, not to mention eyelets. I think you will need to have a custom
>frame built, buy all the components individually, and get it assembled.
>
>This will be expensive. I have just done the same thing to get a touring
>bike exactly like I wanted it. Individually buying all of the parts needed
>to assemble a complete bicycle is far more expensive than buying a factory
>built bicycle with similar quality components. You probably already realize
>that if you relaxed your low weight requirement a bit, you would have many
>more options and would end up with a fatter wallet.

Do you REALIZE just how much that fatter wallet can WEIGH??

;)

Email address works as is.

[velodancer]

If you are willing to spend the bucks, you can build the bike you
want. You posted a custom only bike. The bike pictured does not weigh
18/19 pounds even though it is titanium. Not with a Brooks saddle!

[G.T.]

James wrote:
> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>
> - actually be a road bike
> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> - brakes that can clear fenders
> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> - 700 23 tires
> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>
> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
> The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
> ( http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg )
>
> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.
>

Wow. 25 lbs is heavy for a commuter? How much do you weigh? 95 lbs?

I mean, holy ****ing moly, who needs a 23mm shod 19 lb commuter?

Greg

--
Ticketmaster and Ticketweb suck, but everyone knows that:
http://www.ticketmastersucks.org

Dethink to survive - Mclusky

[Tim McNamara]

In article <1187419178.056530.163920@x35g2000prf.googlegroups. com>,
James <wimpyVO2max@gmail.com> wrote:

> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>
> - actually be a road bike
> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> - brakes that can clear fenders
> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> - 700 23 tires
> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)

You're describing pretty much the normal road bike up until roughly 15
years ago.

> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States. The
> audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs (
> http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg )

"Audax" bikes (also called "randonneuring" bikes in the US, although
properly the term is "randonneuse," woul dbe just what you're describing.

> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.

There are some options, cyclo-cross bikes being probably the most
readily available. You'd really tend to have to mix and match and build
up the bike yourself, though. If you take that route there are many
options- frames from Soma, Rivendell, Surly spring to mind.

[Nate Knutson]

On Aug 17, 11:39 pm, James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>
> - actually be a road bike
> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> - brakes that can clear fenders
> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> - 700 23 tires
> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>
> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
> The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
> (http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg)
>
> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.

Redline has currently got some rather typical al/carbon road bikes
that use standard reach brakes and have some tire/fender clearance.
The most expensive one (http://www.redlinebicycles.com/adultbikes/
R760.html , I think it's around 1200US, could be wrong) is 105-ish
and probably down around 19 or 20 or 21 and comes with cheap deep rims
that are probably at least 200g heavier in total than light rims, and
the tires it comes with are probably wire. there's also numerous
higher end cx bikes that could match what you want, although many/most
won't have eyelets.

there are also berthoud carbon fenders, which have a 25mm wide profile
that's designed to be somewhat shortreach friendly and can apparently
fit many/most typical idiotic modern road bikes.

[landotter]

On Aug 18, 1:39 am, James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>
> - actually be a road bike
> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> - brakes that can clear fenders
> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> - 700 23 tires
> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>
> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
> The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
> (http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg)
>
> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.

And your problem is? 25# is what normal people consider a light
commuter, especially if it's equipped with fenders, a proper amount of
spokes, real tires, and strong rims. If it's slow, then it's because
you're a *****. 23mm tires on a "commuter bike"? Can somebody please
refresh the carbide in the stupid beacon? Thanks!

[SMS]

James wrote:
> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>
> - actually be a road bike
> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> - brakes that can clear fenders
> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> - 700 23 tires
> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>
> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
> The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
> ( http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg )
>
> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.

I don't think that these exist in the U.S. any more. I have the old
Specialized Sirrus, circa 1990 or so, that fits the bill, though I think
it's around 22 pounds without racks, lights, fenders etc., being made
before the trend to "stupid-light". It's perfect for commuting--much
more efficient and faster than most dedicated commute bikes.

I guess the U.S. market for a lightweight, narrow tire, road bicycle
that can accept fenders or racks is so small that no one bothers
importing them into the U.S..

You'll have to go to Europe to buy something, or get something custom made.

[thejen12]

On Aug 17, 11:39 pm, James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>
> - actually be a road bike
> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> - brakes that can clear fenders
> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> - 700 23 tires
> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>
> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
> The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
> (http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg)
>
> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.

Check out www.somafab.com . My husband got the Smoothie ES and he
loves it!

Jenn

[Luke]

In article <1187419178.056530.163920@x35g2000prf.googlegroups. com>,
James <wimpyVO2max@gmail.com> wrote:

> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>
> - actually be a road bike
> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> - brakes that can clear fenders
> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> - 700 23 tires
> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>
> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
> The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
> ( http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg )


>
> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.
>

You consider 'commuter-roads' rare? I suspect it's because you'd like
to commute on a race bike rather than a road bike. Perhaps it would be
more realistic to opt for a pure racer (sans eyelets) and outfit it
with SKS race-blades or consider a CX bike.

[ http://www.habcycles.com/cross.html ]

[Qui si parla Campagnolo-www.vecchios.com]

On Aug 18, 12:39 am, James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>
> - actually be a road bike
> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> - brakes that can clear fenders
> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> - 700 23 tires
> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>
> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
> The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
> (http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg)
>
> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.

http://www.waterfordbikes.com

All Waterfords are made to order, with all things you mentioned, like
eyelets, long reach brake options, etc, easy...We had one on the floor
that weighed 17 pounds, nothing exotic..

[Phil]

James wrote:
> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>
> - actually be a road bike
> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> - brakes that can clear fenders
> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> - 700 23 tires
> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>
> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
> The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
> ( http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg )
>
> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.

Giant OCR

--
Phil

[Kerry Montgomery]

James,
Maybe a Redline Conquest from a LBS that will substitute 23 tires for the
cross tires.
Kerry
"James" <wimpyVO2max@gmail.com> wrote in message
news:1187419178.056530.163920@x35g2000prf.googlegr oups.com...
> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>
> - actually be a road bike
> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> - brakes that can clear fenders
> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> - 700 23 tires
> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>
> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
> The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
> ( http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg )
>
> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.
>

[fltchrprtt@gmail.com]

On Aug 18, 2:39 am, James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>
> - actually be a road bike
> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> - brakes that can clear fenders
> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> - 700 23 tires
> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)

It does not sound like you need to build up a custom bike. Get a road
bike that has got what you want minus fender mounts (and maybe require
a change of brakes) and fashion your own mounts. A walkthrough of a
hardware store and an old tube to protect the paint on the frame
should suffice. And if still at a loss for makeshift mounts, UTFSE.

A lot cheaper than building up a full custom. You could even sell the
old brakes on e-bay.

[Chalo]

James wrote:
>
> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.

25 pounds?! Merciful heavens, what shall we do with all that weight?
Hmm, lets see, what would Freddie Hoffman do?

>From http://www.bikingbis.com/blog/BikeTouring/_archives/2006/12/25/2362015.html:

"Over the past 41 years, Hoffman has averaged 81.4 miles per day. He
has clocked 24,700 days of cycling, with 1,500 days off.
....
Fully outfitted, he's pushing 100 pounds on his bicycle. He could go
faster with less weight, he says, but what's the point if he breaks
down without tools out in the middle of nowhere."

I just don't know how I could stand to ride a bike that weighed a
whole 25 pounds! My VO2 max is really wimpy!

Chalo

[!Jones]

On Sat, 18 Aug 2007 06:39:38 -0000, in rec.bicycles.tech James
<wimpyVO2max@gmail.com> wrote:

>Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
>bike?

Do any of the accessories manufacturers make clothing that doesn't
look silly?

Jones

[bobv]

On Fri, 17 Aug 2007 23:50:36 -0700, "G.T." <getnews1@dslextreme.com> wrote:

>James wrote:
>> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
>> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>>
>> - actually be a road bike
>> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
>> - brakes that can clear fenders
>> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
>> - 700 23 tires
>> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>>
>> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
>> The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
>> ( http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg )
>>
>> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
>> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.
>>
>
>Wow. 25 lbs is heavy for a commuter? How much do you weigh? 95 lbs?
>
>I mean, holy ****ing moly, who needs a 23mm shod 19 lb commuter?
>
>Greg

Hey Greg, the guy asked a legitimate question, not a request for what you think
he should be riding!

I also would be in the market for the same type bike. Not all of us have a bike
for every purpose. I live in the NW and do vigorous club rides in the winter
(lots of rain) and also need to commute on the same bike. Yes I do have a 18 lb
"summer bike", but don't want to ride it in the rain or commute on it. Right
now I am commuting on my old mountain bike with fenders and racks, and don't
really enjoy it all that much.

Thanks to the rest of you with your answers.

Bob.

[still me]

On Sat, 18 Aug 2007 01:52:04 -0500, Tim McNamara
<timmcn@bitstream.net> wrote:

>In article <1187419178.056530.163920@x35g2000prf.googlegroups. com>,
> James <wimpyVO2max@gmail.com> wrote:
>
>> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
>> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>>
>> - actually be a road bike
>> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
>> - brakes that can clear fenders
>> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
>> - 700 23 tires
>> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>
>You're describing pretty much the normal road bike up until roughly 15
>years ago.
>

I was thinking the same thing. He's describing a vintage road bike.
Something from the 70's , 80's, maybe early 90's would meet the
requirements. Maybe a little high on the weight all dressed, but not
much. Wheelbase somewhat dependent on the intended purpose.

[John Forrest Tomlinson]

On Sat, 18 Aug 2007 06:32:20 -0400, Luke <lucasiragusa@rogers.com>
wrote:


>You consider 'commuter-roads' rare? I suspect it's because you'd like
>to commute on a race bike rather than a road bike. Perhaps it would be
>more realistic to opt for a pure racer (sans eyelets) and outfit it
>with SKS race-blades or consider a CX bike.
>
>[ http://www.habcycles.com/cross.html ]

I used to have a 9 or 10 mile commute I'd do on a bike. I tended to
ride it vigorously enough to take a shower at the office, so I did it
on my racing bike with heavy tires. Never flatted on the way, bike
worked fine, fun to ride.
--
JT
****************************
Remove "remove" to reply
Visit http://www.jt10000.com
****************************

[James]

On Aug 18, 4:57 am, "Qui si parla Campagnolo-www.vecchios.com"
<pe...@vecchios.com> wrote:
> On Aug 18, 12:39 am, James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> > Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> > bike?
>
> http://www.waterfordbikes.com
>
> All Waterfords are made to order, with all things you mentioned, like
> eyelets, long reach brake options, etc, easy...We had one on the floor
> that weighed 17 pounds, nothing exotic..

I think you're right, I'll have no choice but to go made to order or
build one up myself. Some other posters mentioned Giant and
Cannondale, but what I've noticed on the major manufacturers is that
fender eyelets are only found on the low-end heavy Sora type models.

You say you ^^had^^ one on the floor, which means it sold. See...
see... there's a niche out there needing to be filled ;-)

[James]

On Aug 18, 6:18 am, landotter <landot...@gmail.com> wrote:
> On Aug 18, 1:39 am, James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> > Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> > bike?
>
> And your problem is? 25# is what normal people consider a light
> commuter, especially if it's equipped with fenders, a proper amount of
> spokes, real tires, and strong rims. If it's slow, then it's because
> you're a *****. 23mm tires on a "commuter bike"? Can somebody please
> refresh the carbide in the stupid beacon? Thanks!

My only "problem" is that I like the feel of a light, fast bike and
when it rains I would like to keep my feet and backside dry. My
commute is on smooth pavement. The 2,000 miles I did on 23mm tires and
20-spoke rims last winter went just fine and nothing broke. You're
right, the conventional wisdom is that a commuter bike shall be 25
pounds with 28mm tires, how dare I not conform? Yes, I was stupid.
I'll have to undo all those breakdown-free miles.

[A Muzi]

> James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
>> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
>> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>> - actually be a road bike
>> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
>> - brakes that can clear fenders
>> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
>> - 700 23 tires
>> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
>> The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
>> (http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg)
>> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
>> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.

landotter wrote:
> And your problem is? 25# is what normal people consider a light
> commuter, especially if it's equipped with fenders, a proper amount of
> spokes, real tires, and strong rims. If it's slow, then it's because
> you're a *****. 23mm tires on a "commuter bike"? Can somebody please
> refresh the carbide in the stupid beacon? Thanks!

I don't know that tire width is a problem, depending on the route. My
22mm tubs fit nicely under the steel mudguards of my 29lb commuter*.
Haven't found a better ride in many years of daily commuting. ?!

A rider in SoCal may not need mudguards. I do. Some riders can't use
tires smaller than 35mm. I can. Some need/want luggage capacity, I
seldom have more than a newspaper in a rubber band across my bars.
I agree about "18lbs". Surely weight is non-critical to a commuter in
most cases.

*my nearly 30lb bike's nimble and fun. Some 20lb bikes are pigs. As we
often note, YMMV.
--
Andrew Muzi
www.yellowjersey.org
Open every day since 1 April, 1971

[Booker C. Bense]

In article <46c6fa2a$0$27237$742ec2ed@news.sonic.net>,
SMS <scharf.steven@geemail.com> wrote:
>James wrote:
>> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
>> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>>
>> - actually be a road bike
>> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
>> - brakes that can clear fenders
>> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
>> - 700 23 tires
>> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>>
>> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
>
>I guess the U.S. market for a lightweight, narrow tire, road bicycle
>that can accept fenders or racks is so small that no one bothers
>importing them into the U.S..
>

That sounds like a Trek Pilot or Specialized Sequoia to
me. Wheelbase is a bit on the long side though. Rumor has it
that both models will be redesigned with quicker handling for
2008.

_ Booker C. Bense

[Steve Gravrock]

On 2007-08-18, Booker C Bense
<bbense+rec.bicycles.tech.Aug.18.07@telemark.slac.s tanford.edu> wrote:

>>James wrote:
>>> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
>>> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>>>
>>> - actually be a road bike
>>> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
>>> - brakes that can clear fenders
>>> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
>>> - 700 23 tires
>>> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)

> That sounds like a Trek Pilot or Specialized Sequoia to
> me. Wheelbase is a bit on the long side though. Rumor has it
> that both models will be redesigned with quicker handling for
> 2008.

That's what I was about to suggest. My Pilot 1.2 misses the weight
target by a pound or two (IIRC it weighed 20 or 21 lbs before I started
hanging accessories on it) but would otherwise fit the bill once the
stock 28mm tires were swapped out. One of the more expensive models
would probably hit the OP's target weight.

If the OP wants to go that route it would probably be best to start
shopping now. Trek is reducing the Pilot line to two or three models
for 2008: <http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/2008/road>. All models
have eyelets on the front and rear dropouts but I don't see any rack
eyelets on the upper seatstays. It still might work if the OP doesn't
plan to mount a rack or is fine with securing it to the brake bolt.

The other possible issue I see is that most bikes in that weight range
are none too long in the chainstays, which could be an issue if the OP
plans to use panniers and has average or larger feet.

[jim beam]

Booker C. Bense wrote:
> In article <46c6fa2a$0$27237$742ec2ed@news.sonic.net>,
> SMS <scharf.steven@geemail.com> wrote:
>> James wrote:
>>> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
>>> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>>>
>>> - actually be a road bike
>>> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
>>> - brakes that can clear fenders
>>> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
>>> - 700 23 tires
>>> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>>>
>>> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
>> I guess the U.S. market for a lightweight, narrow tire, road bicycle
>> that can accept fenders or racks is so small that no one bothers
>> importing them into the U.S..
>>
>
> That sounds like a Trek Pilot or Specialized Sequoia to
> me.

cannondale and giant have "fast" road models with clearance for fenders too.

> Wheelbase is a bit on the long side though. Rumor has it
> that both models will be redesigned with quicker handling for
> 2008.
>
> _ Booker C. Bense
>
>
>

[Jay Beattie]

On Aug 18, 8:02 am, Booker C. Bense <bbense+rec.bicycles.tech.Aug.
18...@telemark.slac.stanford.edu> wrote:
> In article <46c6fa2a$0$27237$742ec...@news.sonic.net>,
>
>
>
>
>
> SMS <scharf.ste...@geemail.com> wrote:
> >James wrote:
> >> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> >> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>
> >> - actually be a road bike
> >> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> >> - brakes that can clear fenders
> >> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> >> - 700 23 tires
> >> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>
> >> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
>
> >I guess the U.S. market for a lightweight, narrow tire, road bicycle
> >that can accept fenders or racks is so small that no one bothers
> >importing them into the U.S..
>
> That sounds like a Trek Pilot or Specialized Sequoia to
> me. Wheelbase is a bit on the long side though. Rumor has it
> that both models will be redesigned with quicker handling for
> 2008.

The Pilot is a good pick, and the Portland is a great wet-weather bike
with the disc brakes. I'm not excited about low spoke count wheels,
but they seem to be standard on most bikes these days. I see a lot of
Pilots and Portlands in the racks at work. -- Jay Beattie.

[andrew.franklin.martin@gmail.com]

On Aug 18, 9:15 am, James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
> On Aug 18, 4:57 am, "Qui si parla Campagnolo-www.vecchios.com"
>
> <pe...@vecchios.com> wrote:
> > On Aug 18, 12:39 am, James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> > > Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> > > bike?
>
> >http://www.waterfordbikes.com
>
> > All Waterfords are made to order, with all things you mentioned, like
> > eyelets, long reach brake options, etc, easy...We had one on the floor
> > that weighed 17 pounds, nothing exotic..
>
> I think you're right, I'll have no choice but to go made to order or
> build one up myself. Some other posters mentioned Giant and
> Cannondale, but what I've noticed on the major manufacturers is that
> fender eyelets are only found on the low-end heavy Sora type models.
>
> You say you ^^had^^ one on the floor, which means it sold. See...
> see... there's a niche out there needing to be filled ;-)

Take a look at Marcroft:
http://bikehugger.com/2007/01/pretty_custom_rain_bike.htm
He can get you a sweet fast-commuter for a price that won't break the
bank. You can get everything you want for probably something close to
"off the shelf" prices of other makers

I have a Trek Portland that I love. 21 lbs as pictured:
http://tinyurl.com/2sm7lx

[Qui si parla Campagnolo-www.vecchios.com]

On Aug 18, 10:15 am, James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
> On Aug 18, 4:57 am, "Qui si parla Campagnolo-www.vecchios.com"
>
> <pe...@vecchios.com> wrote:
> > On Aug 18, 12:39 am, James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> > > Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> > > bike?
>
> >http://www.waterfordbikes.com
>
> > All Waterfords are made to order, with all things you mentioned, like
> > eyelets, long reach brake options, etc, easy...We had one on the floor
> > that weighed 17 pounds, nothing exotic..
>
> I think you're right, I'll have no choice but to go made to order or
> build one up myself. Some other posters mentioned Giant and
> Cannondale, but what I've noticed on the major manufacturers is that
> fender eyelets are only found on the low-end heavy Sora type models.
>
> You say you ^^had^^ one on the floor, which means it sold. See...
> see... there's a niche out there needing to be filled ;-)

We will be replacing it soon..it was a demo, we have an example of all
the bikes we sell for demos...Parlee, Waterford, Moots, Lynskey,
Gunnar.

[G.T.]

James wrote:
> On Aug 18, 6:18 am, landotter <landot...@gmail.com> wrote:
>> On Aug 18, 1:39 am, James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>
>>> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
>>> bike?
>> And your problem is? 25# is what normal people consider a light
>> commuter, especially if it's equipped with fenders, a proper amount of
>> spokes, real tires, and strong rims. If it's slow, then it's because
>> you're a *****. 23mm tires on a "commuter bike"? Can somebody please
>> refresh the carbide in the stupid beacon? Thanks!
>
> My only "problem" is that I like the feel of a light, fast bike and
> when it rains I would like to keep my feet and backside dry. My
> commute is on smooth pavement. The 2,000 miles I did on 23mm tires and
> 20-spoke rims last winter went just fine and nothing broke. You're
> right, the conventional wisdom is that a commuter bike shall be 25
> pounds with 28mm tires, how dare I not conform? Yes, I was stupid.
> I'll have to undo all those breakdown-free miles.
>

Dude, you've been brainwashed. Seriously.

Greg

--
Ticketmaster and Ticketweb suck, but everyone knows that:
http://www.ticketmastersucks.org

Dethink to survive - Mclusky

[landotter]

On Aug 18, 2:39 pm, A Muzi <a...@yellowjersey.org> wrote:
> > James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
> >> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> >> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
> >> - actually be a road bike
> >> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> >> - brakes that can clear fenders
> >> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> >> - 700 23 tires
> >> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
> >> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
> >> The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
> >> (http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg)
> >> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
> >> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.
> landotter wrote:
> > And your problem is? 25# is what normal people consider a light
> > commuter, especially if it's equipped with fenders, a proper amount of
> > spokes, real tires, and strong rims. If it's slow, then it's because
> > you're a *****. 23mm tires on a "commuter bike"? Can somebody please
> > refresh the carbide in the stupid beacon? Thanks!
>
> I don't know that tire width is a problem, depending on the route. My
> 22mm tubs fit nicely under the steel mudguards of my 29lb commuter*.
> Haven't found a better ride in many years of daily commuting. ?!

I'm sure it rides great--but you're a master wrench who can likely
change one in the pouring rain upside down while reciting quips from
Lenny Bruce's classic guide to life..

>
> A rider in SoCal may not need mudguards. I do. Some riders can't use
> tires smaller than 35mm. I can. Some need/want luggage capacity, I
> seldom have more than a newspaper in a rubber band across my bars.
> I agree about "18lbs". Surely weight is non-critical to a commuter in
> most cases.
>

The only time I've wanted for a very light bike is when I lived in a
third floor walkup in the city. I used a 35# bike usually anyway,
because it was such a great beast, but did have a single speed that
weighed in at 20#.

I've got a 23mm tired bike beside me at the moment, and it's probably
going to get craiglisted soon. Indeed, it's light at 19#--but in the
end, it's all about the geometry, as you say. The thing rides way too
nervously with the silly amount of fork rake. Plus, I've taken to the
philosophy that a guy's gotta be able to cut into the woods
occasionally and jump curbs...and amusingly enough, the heavier ride
is faster, because it inspires confidence. Same thing with my old 35#
commuter--it inspired Jobstian cornering.

[A Muzi]

>>> James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>>> Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
>>>> bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
>>>> - actually be a road bike
>>>> - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
>>>> - brakes that can clear fenders
>>>> - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
>>>> - 700 23 tires
>>>> - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>>>> Can't seem to find anything like this here in the United States.
>>>> The audax bikes in the U.K. seem to match my specs
>>>> (http://www.setavento.com/img/AudaxBike.jpg)
>>>> I'm surprised commuter-roads are so rare. All of the commuters I see
>>>> in the shops are either hybrids or 25 lbs tourers.

>> landotter wrote:
>>> And your problem is? 25# is what normal people consider a light
>>> commuter, especially if it's equipped with fenders, a proper amount of
>>> spokes, real tires, and strong rims. If it's slow, then it's because
>>> you're a *****. 23mm tires on a "commuter bike"? Can somebody please
>>> refresh the carbide in the stupid beacon? Thanks!

> A Muzi <a...@yellowjersey.org> wrote:
>> I don't know that tire width is a problem, depending on the route. My
>> 22mm tubs fit nicely under the steel mudguards of my 29lb commuter*.
>> Haven't found a better ride in many years of daily commuting.

landotter wrote:
> I'm sure it rides great--but you're a master wrench who can likely
> change one in the pouring rain upside down while reciting quips from
> Lenny Bruce's classic guide to life..

> A Muzi <a...@yellowjersey.org> wrote:
>> A rider in SoCal may not need mudguards. I do. Some riders can't use
>> tires smaller than 35mm. I can. Some need/want luggage capacity, I
>> seldom have more than a newspaper in a rubber band across my bars.
>> I agree about "18lbs". Surely weight is non-critical to a commuter in
>> most cases.

landotter wrote:
> The only time I've wanted for a very light bike is when I lived in a
> third floor walkup in the city. I used a 35# bike usually anyway,
> because it was such a great beast, but did have a single speed that
> weighed in at 20#.
> I've got a 23mm tired bike beside me at the moment, and it's probably
> going to get craiglisted soon. Indeed, it's light at 19#--but in the
> end, it's all about the geometry, as you say. The thing rides way too
> nervously with the silly amount of fork rake. Plus, I've taken to the
> philosophy that a guy's gotta be able to cut into the woods
> occasionally and jump curbs...and amusingly enough, the heavier ride
> is faster, because it inspires confidence. Same thing with my old 35#
> commuter--it inspired Jobstian cornering.

I'm as lazy as the next guy - maybe moreso. I just lean over the other
wheel until I get where I'm going, especially in the rain. Yep, love
Lenny Bruce.
--
Andrew Muzi
www.yellowjersey.org
Open every day since 1 April, 1971

[Ozark Bicycle]

On Aug 21, 9:30 pm, Patrick Lamb <pdl678NOS...@comcast.net> wrote:
> On Sat, 18 Aug 2007 18:05:23 -0500, "BobT"
>
>
>
> <RobertLeeTaylor...@THISSuddenLink.net> wrote:
>
> >If you really want an 18 pound bike + fenders, I think a custom built frame
> >is going to be the only way to get it. Your 18 pound specification requires
> >higher-end lightweight road racing components throughout including
> >everything from the saddle to the wheels. I've never seen a bike like this
> >(in recent decades) with the frame clearance and brakes to accommodate full
> >fenders, not to mention eyelets. I think you will need to have a custom
> >frame built, buy all the components individually, and get it assembled.
>
> >This will be expensive. I have just done the same thing to get a touring
> >bike exactly like I wanted it. Individually buying all of the parts needed
> >to assemble a complete bicycle is far more expensive than buying a factory
> >built bicycle with similar quality components. You probably already realize
> >that if you relaxed your low weight requirement a bit, you would have many
> >more options and would end up with a fatter wallet.
>
> Do you REALIZE just how much that fatter wallet can WEIGH??
>
> ;)
>

Haven't you heard? The $US is shrinking on the international monetary
markets, so your wallet doesn't pack the weight it used to. ;-)

[Ryan Cousineau]

In article <1188155554.688648.281870@50g2000hsm.googlegroups.c om>,
"fltchrprtt@gmail.com" <fltchrprtt@gmail.com> wrote:

> On Aug 18, 2:39 am, James <wimpyVO2...@gmail.com> wrote:
> > Does any bike manufacturer make and sell a light, fast commuter road
> > bike? Here's what I want in a commuter-road:
> >
> > - actually be a road bike
> > - eyelets, front and back, for fenders in winter
> > - brakes that can clear fenders
> > - fairly lightweight (18 or 19 lbs without fenders)
> > - 700 23 tires
> > - reasonably fast geometry (in 56cm wheelbase under 1000mm)
>
> It does not sound like you need to build up a custom bike. Get a road
> bike that has got what you want minus fender mounts (and maybe require
> a change of brakes) and fashion your own mounts. A walkthrough of a
> hardware store and an old tube to protect the paint on the frame
> should suffice. And if still at a loss for makeshift mounts, UTFSE.
>
> A lot cheaper than building up a full custom. You could even sell the
> old brakes on e-bay.

The other bike that would work is a nicely specified cyclocross frame.
Something with 105 or Ultegra bits from Redline or Kona or anyone else
should fill your specs. I've raced my CX bike with slicks this season,
and it's just a road bike with cantis.

As a third option, I'm pretty sure the Trek Pilot or Cannondale Synapse
line would do the deal. The Pilot has eyelets for sure (you can see them
on their web photos, though I don't know about the brake clearance).

--
Ryan Cousineau rcousine@sfu.ca http://www.wiredcola.com/
"I don't want kids who are thinking about going into mathematics
to think that they have to take drugs to succeed." -Paul Erdos