Which city single speed commuter?

[PapaLazaru]

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

 

[PapaLazaru]

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.

 

[PapaLazaru]

I'd go with the charge too Vitus looks just slow, heavy and boring?!

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.

 

[PapaLazaru]

I'd lean to the Charge Plug because it has a Charge Spoon saddle and bullhorns.

I'd go with the charge too Vitus looks just slow, heavy and boring?!

Advice taken and Plug ordered.

Also ordered some lights - http://www.tredz.co.uk/.Moon-Comet-30-Lumen-Front-and-Rear-USB-Rechargeable-Light-Set_57311.htm

And a lock - http://www.tredz.co.uk/.OnGuard-Lock-Shackle-Cable-Pitbull_61144.htm

 

[PapaLazaru]

Delivered earlier and took it for a quick spin. Love it.

 

[PapaLazaru]

No mudguards?

Not yet. Not sure what to get.

Picture is a little small but looks really nice!

Forgot to resize, sorry.

Is a lovely bike though. Glad I went to the top end of my budget of £300.00. Was reduced from £450.00 and has since gone back up to £337.49!

 

[PapaLazaru]

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.

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.