What's your commuter bike?

[kevinvc]

I commute by bike year round in Portland, Oregon. I absolutely hate riding with anything on my back, so fenders and a rack are a necessity. The roads aren't great, so I need at least 28 tires, although I prefer 32. I'm not a Cat 6 racer, but I do like to go a bit above a snails pace.

Over the last couple of years I've used either my flat bar cross bike or my Soma ES, both with fenders and a rear rack. Both worked fine, but it's a bit of a pain having to do the basic maintenance on a weekly basis, especially during the rainy season, which is over half the year here. It seems like I spend way too much time cleaning the drive train, wiping down the rims, picking debris out of brake pads, etc. I also kind of like the idea of having a more upright, toodling around town with friends or family style bike.

I'm looking at a used Novara Gotham (http://www.rei.com/product/857590/novara-gotham-bike-2015) that's selling for a decent price. I'm really intrigued by a belt drive with an internal hub and disc brakes. It seems like a super comfortable close to zero maintenance bike, but I'm a little hesitant because of it's massive weight.

What do you all use for everyday commuting? What factors do you care about the most, e.g. performance, comfort, maintenance, etc.?

There's obviously not a right or wrong answer, I'm just curious about what other folks look for in their daily ride.

[biker72]

Specialized Crux with disc brakes. Comfortable, big tires. Use a backpack for transporting things and light grocery shopping. Probably a little overkill but it works for me.

[azrider]

1987 Dave Scott Centurion dipped in chrome and converted to single speed. I run 28's with thorn resistant tubes. Oh what fun........

Sometimes, depending on cargo/load, I'll throw makeshift rack on there

[R3awak3n]

I commute on all my bikes but this guy gets more commute time:

http://www.pedalroom.com/p/rawland-drakkar-17134_8.jpg


Today I rode my JP Weigle though, nice day out, might take the long route home in about na hour.

[Kirk007]

Moving from a Niner RLT - which has been very good, to a Spectrum Ti rando bike, thanks to the Paceline forum!

One the one hand, it seems kinda ridiculous right - custom (not for me but might as well have been) ti bike designed by Tom Kellogg with Berthoud front bag on custom front rack - for commuting?

Here's my thinking (beyond that I always have lusted over Spectrums): It is the bike I ride 5 days a week, 2-3 hours each day, every week of the year that I'm in town unless sick or injured. This year I've found myself taking the Niner even on weekends rather than my "nicer" bikes as it is always set to go, fenders, wider tires, it became my default bike. Well when the opportunity presented to make my everyday bike my "nice" or "just as nice" bike, I jumped on it. The only question, which time will tell, will be whether I keep both of my other "nice" bikes.

[scrubadub]

Reliability is number one. Ease of carrying stuff is number two.

Here's my usual commuter, a Kogswell P/R set up as a 1x8 with a custom front rack, a big Wald basket, and a double-legged kickstand. It's also my kid hauler.

That said, I haven't had time to ride recreationally recently, so I've been riding my road and cross bikes more often to work.

1697904734

[Bradford]

I use my Independent Fabrication Independence touring bike on my 50 mile commute to my client site. I always carry a rack trunk and will slap on a pannier if I need to take my laptop in and out. But, if I plan things correctly, I have my change of clothes, shower stuff, and laptop in the office already.

If I'm just going to my office for internal meetings and not my client's office, I'll take the legend because I can bring it into meeting room with me and people have grown use to me doing meetings in a cycling gear.

[Grant McLean]

Most of the time in the city is on my Kirk, unless it's snowing.

-g

[weisan]

My commute is relatively short compared to most, about 3 miles one way from the train station to the office. But I have used it a lot for riding on the trails around the lake during lunch time. It doesn't come home with me everyday, instead gets locked up inside a secure, covered shelter overnight. Converting to 650b is the best thing I have done to this bike. It has gone through rain, mud, dust - no snow, not in Texas. The only maintenance I have done to it in a year and a half of riding is change out the front tire (Col de la Vie 650bx38 (https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CB8QFjAAahUKEwiTgIemgpPHAhWFdD4KHaO_A9g&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FPanaracer-650B-38mm-Black-Steel%2Fdp%2FB000Y19C86&ei=xJHCVZOOM4Xp-QGj_47ADQ&usg=AFQjCNFWt2oo8mBBLSUFJZTmhhApvh3WTQ&sig2=H2Si_d5te9yo7hk3nrjxQA&bvm=bv.99261572,d.cWw))
and spraying down with WD40 after getting caught in a major downpour, other than that, it has withstood my abuse. :o

http://alicehui.com/bike/final_bianchi_650b.jpg

[ptourkin]

Depending on how fast I need to get there and how much I have - Kogswell p/r with Swift Industries rando and seat bags plus front panniers, Moots PsychloX or Seven Alaris fixed with backpack. Brompton with front bag when commute is multi-modal.

[Lewis Moon]

Ridley X-Fire or my Raleigh Hodala. I use my commute as training.

[bicycletricycle]

this chapman-
http://www.chapmancycles.com/2013/11/le-grand-porteur/

recent commute action
http://i975.photobucket.com/albums/ae236/bicycletricycle/CB023518-E908-4F74-9730-6CAD677B30A4_zpsvn6ucvaq.jpg (http://s975.photobucket.com/user/bicycletricycle/media/CB023518-E908-4F74-9730-6CAD677B30A4_zpsvn6ucvaq.jpg.html)

fenders, big tires, dynamo, front rack.

[alexstar]

Here's my Signal - a versatile bike that takes 32mm tires with fenders, racks, and a Shimano 105 triple group. With skinny tires it could do a reasonable impression of a go-fast bike, but that's not what I bought it for. I wanted it because it could handle commuting duties as well as loaded touring. It's a great bike and I ride it all over the place.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3787/12728383194_f462d0954e_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/koLhSE)Signal (https://flic.kr/p/koLhSE) by Alex Cortez (https://www.flickr.com/photos/soradical/), on Flickr

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2824/12606968364_4e809b260d_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/kd31tw)Signal Touring Bike (https://flic.kr/p/kd31tw) by Alex Cortez (https://www.flickr.com/photos/soradical/), on Flickr

[JAGI410]

I commute on 4 out of 6 of my bikes, but this is the only purpose-built commuter in the bunch.

CrossCheck, Dynamo, Rock n Roads...I have single track and gravel options on my route, it's nice having a bike that lets me do anything I want!

http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a434/JAGI410/739E90C7-362D-458C-8C7F-389F9472BCBD_zpszwe3phdw.jpg (http://s1035.photobucket.com/user/JAGI410/media/739E90C7-362D-458C-8C7F-389F9472BCBD_zpszwe3phdw.jpg.html)

[classtimesailer]

My commuter is much like your Soma: Milwaukee, bar end Ultegra 10 speed, fenders and 28 Ruffy Tuffys. No backpack since I got a Carradice saddle bag. I doubt that disks and internal gears will be lower maintenance. I hope by next fall, I'll have a track bike drilled for brakes, room for 28s and clip on fenders.

[shortribs]

Not to turn this into a Kogswell thread, but here's another P/R in porteur mode (hauling a 61cm S&S coupled Zanconato off to build over the winter). Despite year round usage, kid duty, and minimal care while being locked up everywhere in NYC, it's yet to skip a beat. For me, a commuter has to be a blast to ride - I let go of a dyno'd Brompton ML6 that was intended for the same commute as it wasn't any fun on the road.

Maybe have a look at one of Josh Muir's Frances offerings, or an Elephant NFE?

[nesteel]

'84 Centurion Elite GT. Mildly modified; 700c wheels, 9speed rear, Shimano indexed bar ends, Gary 2 bars and Egge fenders. Still rocking the original rack, and a set of period correct Eclipse panniers and handlebar bag.

[ergott]

I commute on any of my roadish bikes. When it's wet and when winter brings sand and salt on the roads, the Coffee Grinder below comes out full-time.

This is the most recent setup. I have bigger rear bag for tools, tubes etc. Rear bag required a new tail light mount. Rocking dynolife with a Son28 so I don't have to charge my lights every other night. Lighting is much better than any battery light I have ever seen. Such a great riding bike it's a pleasure to start my day with it.

https://ergottwheels.smugmug.com/Cycling/The-bikes/i-QM5cDgJ/1/X3/IMG_20150714_172839-X3.jpg

[bmeryman]

Like others here, most of my bikes end up in commuter rotation depending on what I'm doing before/after work, but here's my current go-to:

http://i978.photobucket.com/albums/ae263/maximumunicorn/IMG_0694_zpstafcywmc.jpg (http://s978.photobucket.com/user/maximumunicorn/media/IMG_0694_zpstafcywmc.jpg.html)

[Bob Ross]

My commuter is also my foul weather/winter training road bike:
A 1986 Bridgestone 600 with 7-speed freewheel, down tube friction shifters, Armadillo Elite 23c tires , full coverage SKS fenders, and a bevy of front & rear lights

[blessthismess]

My commuter is a ridgid 92' Stumpjumper, with with 1.9" semi slick tires and a Cetma front rack. Love my other bikes but got sick of flats and breaking spokes, parts, rims and even frames. To many cracks in the road, potholes and train tracks etc. The rack is great too when I don't want to lug weight around on my back. It's not by any means the lightest bike but I look at it like extra weight training for my legs ;) Kinda like those basketball players with the weights on their ankles. Makes any other bike feel like air.

[shovelhd]

Redline Conquest Pro, but I don't commute anymore.

[stephenmarklay]

Not to turn this into a Kogswell thread, but here's another P/R in porteur mode (hauling a 61cm S&S coupled Zanconato off to build over the winter). Despite year round usage, kid duty, and minimal care while being locked up everywhere in NYC, it's yet to skip a beat. For me, a commuter has to be a blast to ride - I let go of a dyno'd Brompton ML6 that was intended for the same commute as it wasn't any fun on the road.

Maybe have a look at one of Josh Muir's Frances offerings, or an Elephant NFE?

Thats dangerous and awesome at the same time.

[stephenmarklay]

Neat ideas. I am looking myself, not for commuting, but errand running etc.

There are plentiful old steel MTBs to choose. Kind of like a hybrid with 26 tires.

[moose8]

I've been using a surly steamroller set up as fixed with an origin 8 integrated front basket. I find for commuting in boston it's 90% perfect. The only thing I would change is make it easier to mount good fenders. I have 32s on there now so there's almost no room for fenders. I really like a fixed hear for city riding and navigating traffic.

[seanile]

meriwether (https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.801748009889078.1073741834.100001616603690&type=1&l=d97c1ab925). front and rear racks and fenders, 2.35 slick tires, 46x30 and 11-32. no road is too gnarly. very useful when a massive pothole surprises you.
https://36.media.tumblr.com/5640d0febf3a6a59c87b10e861006e25/tumblr_npapgaPJRb1rrnk8uo1_540.jpg

[SELFdizolve]

Thanks for this thread... been looking at options as I'm commuting on my road bike, BMC SLX01.

[blessthismess]

Neat ideas. I am looking myself, not for commuting, but errand running etc.

There are plentiful old steel MTBs to choose. Kind of like a hybrid with 26 tires.

Yeah you can find lots of good old steel mountain bikes for very reasonable prices. I do recemmond ditching any suspension fork if you plan on using it primarily for city miles. Throw a rack on and your good to go.

[thirdgenbird]

Yeah you can find lots of good old steel mountain bikes for very reasonable prices. I do recemmond ditching any suspension fork if you plan on using it primarily for city miles. Throw a rack on and your good to go.

This

A set of slick tires and a Kona or surly fork will turn a cheap mtb into a great commuter/knock around bike. You can even update to 10spd on the cheap. I went 1x using the original crankset and hub. After selling the original shifters, derailleurs and triple chainring set, it was a very inexpensive update.

[joe.e]

I commute with my main road bike ('03 5500) and a chrome barrage.

I'm actually looking for a new main bike (and hence new commute bike), with hopefully a slightly taller headtube and/or slacker angles.

[Dr Luxurious]

I live 35 miles from work, no showers, and I start at 7am.

So, I wish it was

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a322/tmge/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-07/th_2374BAA9-61E7-43F9-BA63-1C904061BE9D_zpsuenwzstc.jpg (http://s14.photobucket.com/user/tmge/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-07/2374BAA9-61E7-43F9-BA63-1C904061BE9D_zpsuenwzstc.jpg.html)

but it has to be

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a322/tmge/cb750/th_IMG_9917.jpg (http://s14.photobucket.com/user/tmge/media/cb750/IMG_9917.jpg.html)

Still better than a car, though.

[jtakeda]

Fuso FR-1 With Cetma Rack
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5494/12399914983_167d8b68e7.jpg

Or
Lemond Poprad
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7580/16065951686_dd12ee19e8.jpg

[RFC]

1987 Dave Scott Centurion dipped in chrome and converted to single speed. I run 28's with thorn resistant tubes. Oh what fun........

Sometimes, depending on cargo/load, I'll throw makeshift rack on there

Awesome! Love chrome bikes. Who did the dipping?

[kevinvc]

My commuter is much like your Soma: Milwaukee, bar end Ultegra 10 speed, fenders and 28 Ruffy Tuffys. No backpack since I got a Carradice saddle bag. I doubt that disks and internal gears will be lower maintenance. I hope by next fall, I'll have a track bike drilled for brakes, room for 28s and clip on fenders.

Why do you think that? Especially during the rainy season(s) it seems like I spend more time than I want cleaning, lubing, adjusting derailleurs, etc. than I want. Being able to squirt some water on a belt to get the grit off and call it good sounds pretty nice to me. Plus the rims will last longer for all the times I should but don't get around to cleaning them and picking stuff out of the pads.

I'm not 100% sold on the idea, which is why I'd appreciate any input you all have to offer.

[Gsinill]

...but it has to be

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a322/tmge/cb750/th_IMG_9917.jpg (http://s14.photobucket.com/user/tmge/media/cb750/IMG_9917.jpg.html)

Still better than a car, though.

Oh my, on my top 5 list of most iconic and beautiful motorcycles!!

[bobswire]

Just finished a rattle can paint job and in the process of building it back up.

http://i59.tinypic.com/vcx8ud.jpg

http://i58.tinypic.com/sw371u.jpg

http://i59.tinypic.com/91e8wn.jpg

http://i62.tinypic.com/vfvzp2.jpg

http://i58.tinypic.com/2q0pvnp.jpg

http://i59.tinypic.com/2z57udy.jpg

[kevinvc]

That paint job is certainly unique. Good luck selling that locally if it's ever stolen (knock on wood)! :hello:

[bobswire]

I live 35 miles from work, no showers, and I start at 7am.

So, I wish it was

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a322/tmge/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-07/th_2374BAA9-61E7-43F9-BA63-1C904061BE9D_zpsuenwzstc.jpg (http://s14.photobucket.com/user/tmge/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-07/2374BAA9-61E7-43F9-BA63-1C904061BE9D_zpsuenwzstc.jpg.html)

but it has to be

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a322/tmge/cb750/th_IMG_9917.jpg (http://s14.photobucket.com/user/tmge/media/cb750/IMG_9917.jpg.html)

Still better than a car, though.

That's a Sweet "four" Honda you got there, this was my version back in the day.

http://i60.tinypic.com/2ue5v75.jpg

[etu]

Just finished a rattle can paint job and in the process of building it back up.

http://i59.tinypic.com/vcx8ud.jpg

http://i58.tinypic.com/sw371u.jpg

http://i59.tinypic.com/91e8wn.jpg

http://i62.tinypic.com/vfvzp2.jpg

http://i58.tinypic.com/2q0pvnp.jpg

http://i59.tinypic.com/2z57udy.jpg

Nice!:hello:
You have to bring it by the VA.

[bobswire]

Nice!:hello:
You have to bring it by the VA.

I have my physical coming up in a couple of weeks, If I decide to ride it there I'll let you know.

[gomango]

I've been riding my Walter Croll to meetings, classes and occasionally work for the last year.


https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2856/10923538134_69b2090cac_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/hDgZjo)IMG_1944 (https://flic.kr/p/hDgZjo) by gomango1849 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/36270004@N06/), on Flickr

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2865/10923682533_fc01f39d22_b.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/hDhJf2)IMG_1938 (https://flic.kr/p/hDhJf2) by gomango1849 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/36270004@N06/), on Flickr

[Vinci]

Here is my Cross-Check in its natural habitat (my cubicle with my commuting gear).

Shimano R500 wheels, Marathon Supreme tires (700x38), singlespeed (48x15), CX9 brakes, Thomson/Deda/Brooks cockpit, Planet Bike fenders, Topeak rack and bag.

If you're concerned about excessive maintenance, you might just try doing less of it. I treat mine like a tool and it never lets me down. I don't fuss over it and fix things when they go wrong or I feel like upgrading. It rides smooth and quiet, and has only ever needed new cones/bearings in the front wheel.

http://i.imgur.com/otFNuS6l.jpg

[drewellison]

This is loaded just prior to a credit card tour. Normally my commute doesn't include the bags, or maybe just the h/bar bag.
Drew

[azrider]

Awesome! Love chrome bikes. Who did the dipping?

Thanks! It's a hand-me-down frame from my big brother. He got it "dipped" somewhere near the Meramec River in back woods of Missouri back in the early 90's by a guy who specialized in repairing chrome bumpers, not chroming bicycles.

He's got a story that goes with it that ends with the 'chrome guy' saying something like "I ain't never done no bicycle but can't seen none reason why it won't work.........$20"

[SuperColnago]

This is a good thread, I'll post pics tonite!

[icepick_trotsky]

Handsome Devil set up ala Grant Petersen. Mustache bars with a 1x8 drivetrain running Suntour components. Its a perfect frame for this setup -- takes 32s with fenders and plenty of rack braze-ons.

http://i.imgur.com/M6wE5PQh.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/XKlkET7h.jpg

[SuperColnago]

Handsome Devil set up ala Grant Petersen. Mustache bars with a 1x8 drivetrain running Suntour components. Its a perfect frame for this setup -- takes 32s with fenders and plenty of rack braze-ons.

http://i.imgur.com/M6wE5PQh.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/XKlkET7h.jpg

Nice, what stem did you use > post a pic? Thanks

[ptourkin]

Not to turn this into a Kogswell thread...

Awww... why not? Here's mine at a recent San Diego #coffeeoutside

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p250/cecilhayduke/10686641_799728120062324_2323824397031120002_n.jpg

[icepick_trotsky]

Nice, what stem did you use > post a pic? Thanks

Thanks. It's a cheapo Origin8 stem with a fair amount of rise. Works well with the mustache bars, as the steer tube was cut shorter than I would like by the frame's previous owner.

Best pic I had on hand.

http://i.imgur.com/LSWSV6Kh.jpg

[curlybro]

http://i.imgur.com/Fu4sIVB.jpg

Replaced the surly cx check fork that came with the bike with a Waterford Fork, but sadly it's red. Was planning on getting it repainted with a neon blue to tan fade, but the top tube is just a touch too short and I can't get comfortable on it. I'll probably put the F/F/HS up on the marketplace once I clean it up and take some pics.

[jr59]

Moving from a Niner RLT - which has been very good, to a Spectrum Ti rando bike, thanks to the Paceline forum!

One the one hand, it seems kinda ridiculous right - custom (not for me but might as well have been) ti bike designed by Tom Kellogg with Berthoud front bag on custom front rack - for commuting?

Here's my thinking (beyond that I always have lusted over Spectrums): It is the bike I ride 5 days a week, 2-3 hours each day, every week of the year that I'm in town unless sick or injured. This year I've found myself taking the Niner even on weekends rather than my "nicer" bikes as it is always set to go, fenders, wider tires, it became my default bike. Well when the opportunity presented to make my everyday bike my "nice" or "just as nice" bike, I jumped on it. The only question, which time will tell, will be whether I keep both of my other "nice" bikes.

That's going to make one heck of a commuter. :beer:

[donevwil]

'72 Mondia I picked up a few years ago sight unseen for very little $ hoping to build an Eroica rig. Turns out it was too rough for such and turned it into a capable fixed commuter using nothing other than parts I had (why it's such an ugly duckling). 4.5 mi each way and no showers at work so fixed keeps me within my perspiration threshold.

1697904797
1697904798

[kurto]

Nashbar steel cyclocross bike is my commuter, pictured here without fenders or rack because I was just out cruising last weekend. It's a little heavy, but it rides great, and I've been really happy with it. I'm always excited when I hop on at 7am and head downtown.

[kevinvc]

This is what I've been using for the last several months. I'm not really sure why I'm looking to get something else. I kind of feel like the reasons I've given are more justification than totally legitimate.

[thirdgenbird]

Nashbar steel cyclocross bike is my commuter, pictured here without fenders or rack because I was just out cruising last weekend. It's a little heavy, but it rides great, and I've been really happy with it. I'm always excited when I hop on at 7am and head downtown.

That's a smart (and hot) build. I kinda want one.

[sand fungus]

I looked at the Co-Motion bike with the belt drive Rohloff hub and disc brakes but I could not get past the weight of the rear hub and the shifter placement. I always ride on the hoods and like the convenience of the shifting. In the end I ended up with a 105 group I don't ride as much in the rain as it sounds like you do but the disc brakes really made the clean up after a wet commute so much easier. Also getting good fenders and rain flaps keeps the really dirty water off the chain. In the end I am pretty happy with the 105 group.

[R3awak3n]

That's a smart (and hot) build. I kinda want one.

I agree, that looks great.

[JAllen]

Handsome Devil set up ala Grant Petersen. Mustache bars with a 1x8 drivetrain running Suntour components. Its a perfect frame for this setup -- takes 32s with fenders and plenty of rack braze-ons.

http://i.imgur.com/M6wE5PQh.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/XKlkET7h.jpg

Oh that's HAWT. :)

I'm a sucker for a mustache set up... Even though I don't own one. Some day!

[tptplay]

Here's mine. I really love wider 26" tires for commuting. Wish I could fit 2.4 slicks like my previous rockhopper.


http://i.imgur.com/vwTtphi.jpg

[stephenmarklay]

Just finished a rattle can paint job and in the process of building it back up.

http://i59.tinypic.com/vcx8ud.jpg

http://i58.tinypic.com/sw371u.jpg

http://i59.tinypic.com/91e8wn.jpg

http://i62.tinypic.com/vfvzp2.jpg

http://i58.tinypic.com/2q0pvnp.jpg

http://i59.tinypic.com/2z57udy.jpg


I can’t see it. :)

[oldpotatoe]

I can稚 see it. :)

The enemy will spot the front hub.

Me Commuter.

[Tickdoc]

El commutero:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v234/Handgod/226315A1-A5B7-48DE-BE39-60C9808C9E6D_zpskgokgee8.jpgj

[etu]

The enemy will spot the front hub.

Me Commuter.

Where are you commuting to?
Aren't you retired?;)

[Kirk007]

That's going to make one heck of a commuter. :beer:

Yes it will, thanks to for your "contribution" to the cause! First commute tomorrow - still figuring things out, and will need its winter livery (fenders and lights) but I must say, I'm looking forward to going to work tomorrow!

[jensenn]

Handsome Devil set up ala Grant Petersen. Mustache bars with a 1x8 drivetrain running Suntour components. Its a perfect frame for this setup -- takes 32s with fenders and plenty of rack braze-ons.

http://i.imgur.com/M6wE5PQh.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/XKlkET7h.jpg

I too just built up a handsome devil for commuting, winter riding, and ultimately a cross country trip next year. I got the bike with the stock cream color as yours but got bored did a rattle can repaint
http://i916.photobucket.com/albums/ad1/jensenesteves/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_8002_zps03b96ce7.jpg (http://s916.photobucket.com/user/jensenesteves/media/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG_8002_zps03b96ce7.jpg.html)
http://i916.photobucket.com/albums/ad1/jensenesteves/Mobile%20Uploads/photo_zps16910c61.jpg (http://s916.photobucket.com/user/jensenesteves/media/Mobile%20Uploads/photo_zps16910c61.jpg.html)

[oldpotatoe]

Where are you commuting to?
Aren't you retired?;)

Go down to the post office to mail the little package, down to the liquor store with my small messenger bag..when I rode to the shop, I rode the Moots often..a little ride-to the shop, ride home. But don't have to 'work', to 'commute' by bike-yes?

[mercretas]

Thanks for all the inspiration and ideas. I'm slowly working toward building up an all-season commuter now that the local jurisdiction is plowing the rails-to-trails bike path in the winter.

[josephr]

Jamis Satellite (Reynolds 520) with Shimano Tiagra/105 mix, RS10 wheelset, 700x32c Contact IIs.

[many_styles]

Would it blasphemous to turn my CSI into a commuter? 😁

[erslah]

I commute by bike year round in Portland, Oregon.


What part of town? On the east side, a hipster sled is de rigeur, and anything too nice will get stolen anyway. If you are in SW like me and do hills in the wet, stick with disc brakes and a normal drive train. This will offend many, but just hose 'er off from time to time to deal with the grit. I ride a DoubleCross.

[beeatnik]

El commutero:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v234/Handgod/226315A1-A5B7-48DE-BE39-60C9808C9E6D_zpskgokgee8.jpgj

Tickdoc, I like your travel in style style.

[AJM100]

2006 Bianchi Veloce, Reynolds 631 frame. A bit heavy but stable and smooth.

[AJosiahK]

Got the frame from fellow Rallizes, a local buddy

built it up and fits/rides awesome.

This photo dates pre generator light setup. Now mounted to a custom bracket pressed under base place, for the headlight. Rear light is mounted on non drive side stay.

Ride always, ride often

http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o313/Drewrides/Mobile%20Uploads/7F4AC24C-D5E2-43CC-A91F-592A5ADD184C_zps39nixp6d.jpg (http://s123.photobucket.com/user/Drewrides/media/Mobile%20Uploads/7F4AC24C-D5E2-43CC-A91F-592A5ADD184C_zps39nixp6d.jpg.html)

[sandyrs]

Got the frame from fellow Rallizes, a local buddy

built it up and fits/rides awesome.

This photo dates pre generator light setup. Now mounted to a custom bracket pressed under base place, for the headlight. Rear light is mounted on non drive side stay.

Ride always, ride often

http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o313/Drewrides/Mobile%20Uploads/7F4AC24C-D5E2-43CC-A91F-592A5ADD184C_zps39nixp6d.jpg (http://s123.photobucket.com/user/Drewrides/media/Mobile%20Uploads/7F4AC24C-D5E2-43CC-A91F-592A5ADD184C_zps39nixp6d.jpg.html)

This is sick, didn't give it a proper look in the shop. I want something just like this for the winter/commuting.

Right now I usually commute on my cross bike so I can hit some trails on the way to the office.

http://image.vsco.co/1/5498799f897071606357/55104e82095615cb1b8b458c/640x639/vsco_032315.jpg

[adhumston]

Steel Ibis Hakkalugi. Just finished the build (mostly, anyhow);

http://i1176.photobucket.com/albums/x327/adhumston/Lugi%20Steel/IMG_5971.jpg (http://s1176.photobucket.com/user/adhumston/media/Lugi%20Steel/IMG_5971.jpg.html)

[RFC]

1987 Dave Scott Centurion dipped in chrome and converted to single speed. I run 28's with thorn resistant tubes. Oh what fun........

Sometimes, depending on cargo/load, I'll throw makeshift rack on there

Now that's very cool. I like chrome bikes. Who did the chrome work?

[RFC]

That's a Sweet "four" Honda you got there, this was my version back in the day.

http://i60.tinypic.com/2ue5v75.jpg

OH, we must have a larger version of that photo. Bell bottoms?

[Paid In Full]

This is my commuter, a matte black Honey, with fiddleback maple fenders from Sykes. The basket is a Wald, and it holds a ton, but makes the bike want to flop over, aggressively, when I am attempting to lock it up. I might move to a smaller basket or a messenger bag.

What's your favorite messenger bag?

[benb]

I have my All City Space Horse set up (kind of) for commuting. I need to buy a "fast" road bike again so I can leave the Space Horse permanently set up for commuting.

At the moment I have 700x28 Conti 4-Seasons on it and I throw a rear rack on/off it when I commute or want to go for a fun ride. It takes me less than 5 minutes to take the rack off or put it back on so no big deal.

I have fenders for it as well, sized for 35c tires. When I get my hands on a go-fast bike I am going to put some 35c tires (I think I'm going to go with Vittoria Voyager Hypers) and leave the fenders & rack on permanently.

It's also currently got SPD-SL pedals on it because I really want those for fun rides.. but for commuting the SPDs will go back on whenever I get around to leaving it permanently dedicated to commuting.

I also always am pulling my son in his Burley trailer if I bike commute.. I take him to preschool, lock the Burley up there, and then continue on to work.

[RFC]

Because I work out of my home office, I don't commute to work. But I do commute to the gym.

My latest gym commuter. Mid 90's Dutch Ti rigid MTB single speed.

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b384/RCopple/IMG_0328r_zps0w2c4cgd.jpg (http://s23.photobucket.com/user/RCopple/media/IMG_0328r_zps0w2c4cgd.jpg.html)

[JAWN]

I commute each day on a Kelly Knobby X (with some custom touches). Door to door it's 17 miles each way. Some days I'll take the long way and hit some trails and climb some hills to get some extra miles. I love this bike. It fits every requirement I had for a do-it-all bike. The wheels have changed but it basically looks the same today as it does in this picture.

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8581/16624760931_f62ddac13f_z.jpg

[onsight512]

Serotta Ti-Max that I bought from Smiley a couple years ago. I think it has a Waltworks(?) fork.

Just fitted the panniers (maiden voyage) this morning and rode to work.
I'd been using a backpack, but they are less than ideal and wouldn't easily carry everything I needed to take a lot of the time.

http://i.imgur.com/FPdbvT6.jpg

[stephenmarklay]

Man you guys have some pretty awesome commuter bikes.

I just brought home my new beater. I paid $50 and I am sure before I am done I will have $150. I am going to dig having a kickstand :)

[Aaron O]

This is the bike I use most often for commuting:

http://i936.photobucket.com/albums/ad205/aolk67/Litespeed/4B4CDEB0-E27D-4FBE-BB0D-EC38D7456428_zpsujtyrtsk.jpg (http://s936.photobucket.com/user/aolk67/media/Litespeed/4B4CDEB0-E27D-4FBE-BB0D-EC38D7456428_zpsujtyrtsk.jpg.html)

http://i936.photobucket.com/albums/ad205/aolk67/Litespeed/null_zps7ec27c0e.jpg (http://s936.photobucket.com/user/aolk67/media/Litespeed/null_zps7ec27c0e.jpg.html)

http://i936.photobucket.com/albums/ad205/aolk67/Litespeed/null_zpsdf7a513e.jpg (http://s936.photobucket.com/user/aolk67/media/Litespeed/null_zpsdf7a513e.jpg.html)

The stuff i like is that it's reasonably light by commuter standardd, it's impervious to rust, has no paint to chip, lots of clearance for studded 2.0 tires when needed, multiple hand positions, looks ugly enough not to be a target and rides pretty well.

Down side -
The Suntour commands are sometimes finicky with the deore derailleur/casette.

[p nut]

This is my commuter, a matte black Honey, with fiddleback maple fenders from Sykes. The basket is a Wald, and it holds a ton, but makes the bike want to flop over, aggressively, when I am attempting to lock it up. I might move to a smaller basket or a messenger bag.

What's your favorite messenger bag?

Got one of these on the wife's bike with a Wald basket and it works well.

http://store.velo-orange.com/index.php/accessories/racks-decaleurs/vo-wheel-stabilizer-xl.html

[Paid In Full]

Thanks P-Nut, I took the basket office the other day, and fell in love with the bike all over again, so I plan to try a backpack or messenger bag to see if I can stand it. If not, I think stabilizer is worth a shot!

[Joxster]

Here's my commuter, 1989 Daccordi, with Chorus chainset on 39 x 17 fixed, Campag brakes, Super Record Headset.

1697907386

[pinkshogun]

nice smooth ride

[Ken Robb]

nice smooth ride

What a relaxed front end!

[pinkshogun]

i never really noticed the front end until i took the picture

[stephenmarklay]

i never really noticed the front end until i took the picture

Ditto on the STA. It looks like a 71/71

[stephenmarklay]

I cleaned up the $50 bike up (one entire day actually) the I added some bits I had in my bin like fenders, decent rubber, pedals and it turned out great. I rode it around maybe 15 miles today and its a good bike.

I greased the BB but I have to do the wheels yet. Everything is 25 years old but the wheels spin forever! When I had it apart I sprayed all the tubes with Frame saver.

[azrider]

I cleaned up the $50 bike up (one entire day actually) the I added some bits I had in my bin like fenders, decent rubber, pedals and it turned out great. I rode it around maybe 15 miles today and its a good bike.

I greased the BB but I have to do the wheels yet. Everything is 25 years old but the wheels spin forever! When I had it apart I sprayed all the tubes with Frame saver.

Ha....depending on your commute, you'll be in the black within a week.

Well done!

[joe.e]

recently upgraded my commuter (one bike kind of guy)

[downtube]

I live 35 miles from work, no showers, and I start at 7am.

http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a322/tmge/cb750/th_IMG_9917.jpg (http://s14.photobucket.com/user/tmge/media/cb750/IMG_9917.jpg.html)

Still better than a car, though.

Awesome 750, is that a 1973? Super clean and that seat looks cool without changing the bikes character. That is a total keeper..chuck

[pff]

got a cross bike, realized cross is dirty and requires dismounting, now it's a commuter

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UWgG9rhGZHc/TqDtS2G-QdI/AAAAAAAAERg/jKtlEtmPzbM/s1600/IMG_7790_2.JPG

[sevencyclist]

I turned this randonneuring bike

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3667/14128731019_ac3f02bbb6_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/nwvruF)2014-05-31 10.39.11 (https://flic.kr/p/nwvruF) by sevencyclist (https://www.flickr.com/photos/38629387@N08/), on Flickr

into a commuter bike

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3949/14976225253_52df8bedec_h.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/oPp51e)2014-10-21 17.35.07 (https://flic.kr/p/oPp51e) by sevencyclist (https://www.flickr.com/photos/38629387@N08/), on Flickr

When I retire, it will go back to rando mode.

[bironi]

Very nice bike.