Town bike for wife?

[goldyjackson]

Just curious if any of you have experience with any of the new "amsterdam" style bikes out there now, as my wife is interested in getting something to tool around on. 3 speeds are ideal. Anything I should be thinking about? Thanks, as always, in advance for your help.

[BUTCH RIDES]

Hello , GiGi and I are thinking about getting one too
Thank You
adios amigos

[justinf]

Check out Velo Orange, he has some cool momentum going in this direction right now.

[saab2000]

Just bought my Mother a 3-speed Trek (http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/2008/bike_path/pure/puredeluxelowstep/) . Very nice. She can step through it and virtually reach the ground while sitting on the seat.

The 3-speed should really be a 5-speed, but not more. The highest gear is WAY too high.

Anyway, it is a pretty good bike for about $400 or so.

[handsomerob]

Just bought my Mother a 3-speed Trek (http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/2008/bike_path/pure/puredeluxelowstep/) . Very nice. She can step through it and virtually reach the ground while sitting on the seat.

The 3-speed should really be a 5-speed, but not more. The highest gear is WAY too high.

Anyway, it is a pretty good bike for about $400 or so.


Why not the Lime??

http://www.trekbikes.com/lime/

I took one for a demo ride the other day (a certain joke about fat girls and mopeds comes to mind). Anyway, I had a few minutes to kill when I was getting a wheel trued and was dare I say it, impressed.

The auto shift gearing worked very well and it had coaster brakes, so it is remarkably uncomplicated and fun to ride. (oh and to all you fixte riders, I concede that is the epitome of uncomplicated, but for "cruising" the MUT, I think the Lime is perfect.)

[jhcakilmer]

My wife and I have ridden a few, Trek, Giant, etc, but definitely like the Electra Amsterdam....smooth, comfortable, and stylist.....ultra classy!

The Classic style in white is very nice!!

[cleavel]

Hi,

I really like my Bianchi Milano:

http://www.bianchiusa.com/typo3temp/5a8ea2f5e2.jpg
Stock



http://www.pbase.com/cleavel/image/68369788/original.jpg
My modified ride

8-speed internal hub, rear coaster brake (cable actuated), and full fenders -- you couldn't ask for more. ;)

Edit: BTW, my wife has one too and she likes it very much.

[stackie]

My wife just got an Uptown 8. Has the 8spd Nexus hub, but there are lower models with the 7 and 3 spd hubs. She likes.

Has lots of neat features.

1. Kickstand.

2. Integrated lock. Locks rear wheel.

3. Racks built in. Breezer trunk bag and panniers very reasonably priced.

4. Classic black styling.

5. Fenders and Chaincase.

Finally, the thing she likes most? The utility and convenience without having to think about it.

As far as the Amsterdam by Electra, I believe it has Electra's extreme setback geometry which I think inhibits good pedaling cadence. On the other hand, my mother has an Elektra derailleur bike which she likes. I just don't think Elektra's are as much about being a well thought out bike as the Breezers. The Bianchi Milano wins on coolness, but again is not as well thought out as the Breezer.

Another option will be the new Civia (google it) bike. It has the new Alfine group and seems to be a good prospect for a city bike.

Jon

[michael white]

I agree with the critique of the Amsterdam. As attractive as it is, I see it as a bike which tries to compromise a bit much: an American beach cruiser with Electra design and Dutch styling elements. Personally if I were in that market, I'd rather try to get a real Dutch bike. I think both the Milano and Breezers are terrific and have been sorely tempted.

[mschol17]

My wife wants a Jorg&olif Scout.

http://www.jorgandolif.com/

[Kevan]

in Amsterdam:

tweewieler (http://www.gazzelle.nl/nl/product.php?idParent=2&idChild=70&idFiets=206&idSegment=19)

[I Want Sachs?]

Azor and Gazelle are bikes made in Holland.

http://www.dutchbikes.us/traditional.html

Heavy, but functional.

[Kevan]

are for flatlanders.

[DRZRM]

+1

I got one for the missus, and she loves it. I think she rides that more than her Serotta (she put a basket on it for yoga clothes).

Hi,

I really like my Bianchi Milano:

http://www.bianchiusa.com/typo3temp/5a8ea2f5e2.jpg
Stock



http://www.pbase.com/cleavel/image/68369788/original.jpg
My modified ride

8-speed internal hub, rear coaster brake (cable actuated), and full fenders -- you couldn't ask for more. ;)

Edit: BTW, my wife has one too and she likes it very much.

[Bittersweet]

Where do you live? If in the greater Boston area go talk to Broadway Bikes or stop by Harris Cyclery.

I ride a Kronan (see photo). I don't think you can get them in the US anymore but if you find one the are great for what they are and cost. Milanos and Batavus's are also nice. Many to choose from. Go super high end and order an ANT bike but my Mike Flanigan (sp?) http://www.antbikemike.com/

[Samster]

Just be careful (http://forums.thepaceline.net/showthread.php?t=32199) out there...