Which city single speed commuter?

PapaLazaru

PapaLazaru

PapaLazaru

Soldato
Joined
23 Dec 2009
Posts
18,205
Location
RG8 9
I have been buying bits and pieces to convert one of my existing bikes of which the gears are knackered into a single speed bike, but it is giving me headaches, so I have decided to just buy something new. Daily commute, about three miles each way on flat tarmac, so nothing fancy required.

I have been primarily looking at the Vitus Vee, which at £224.99 looks good value, though I am a little put off by the fact that it looks like a jack of all trades, rather than a tarmac commuter.

These are the other bikes I have seen within the £300.00 budget I have -

Charge Plug @ £299.99

Claud Butler El Camino @ £247.49

Norco Cityglide @ £280.00

Jamis Beatnik @ £265.00

I am assuming that component wise there is not much between any of them but is there one which stands out, or have I indeed missed another bike for my requirements?

Cheers
 
I got a second hand mint condition 2009 genesis flyer for £280.00

Second hand fixed gear is ideal as there is so little to go wrong, its not like its going to have a knackered expensive to replace multi gear drive train.
Something steel framed, carbon forked with drop bars will do nicely.
 
They are all much of a muchness. I'd lean to the Charge Plug because it has a Charge Spoon saddle and bullhorns.

The Spoon is widely regarded as one of the comfiest saddles around. I have one and would agree although they don't work for everyone.

The bullhorns give you more hand positions compared to standard flat bars which again is a bonus for comfort.
 
Well after a lot of thought, I think I will just go for the Vitus Vee. It might not be as fast on the tarmac but bearing in mind I have bent two 700c rear wheels in the last year by mucking about on my commute, I think the Vee will stand up to more punishment. I do like mucking about on my commute sometimes. :D
 
grudas said:
I'd go with the charge too :) Vitus looks just slow, heavy and boring?!
Click to expand...

Well it was either the Charge or the Vitus in the end. I just have this fear that I will damage the 700c wheels, as I have done before, though they do look stronger than the Alexrims I have gone through two of. The commute is through town as well so lot's of popping up and down kerbs etc.

I just don't know.

*edit*

Seen that Claud Butler bike for £197 new as well which is tempting me somewhat.
 
Last edited:
Good choice! Don't expect to have a good wheel set on a £300 bike though.. :) wheels, finishing kit is where manufacturers save money when it comes to cheaper bikes! In the future get a custom built wheeset for £200 and that'll last a good while! 32spoke if you jump on and off kerbs!
 
Shamrock said:
All you need is one of these

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/?s=ass

My other recommendation, as someone who used to own a Charge, is to change those Kenda tyres as soon as you can afford to!

They puncture very easily.
Click to expand...

I already saw them, but they just look terrible. I need clean lines, like the bike!

I've got some spare tyres ready from my other bike, just in case. :)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom