Time Waster
Veteran
A commuter / leisure rider who tours infrequently needs a new bike. For most use a hybrid is best (£500-800). For touring you're probably talking £1000+ for a spa tourer or something from a mainstream source.
Which is best to get?
A hybrid could be a lighter and potentially faster option for less money. The tourers seem to be 15kg beasts that are overkill for day to day use. However tour with a hybrid you're probably going to regret not getting a tourer. Or are you?
BTW hybrid would be something that can take front pannier rack (pinnacle do one as do trek and specialized iirc).
Then you can buy aluminium frame / steel forked tourers for £700-800. Are these worth looking at? Double for an all steel? If you're used to touring on a bombproof aluminium hardtail would you notice and appreciate full steel tourer? Do they make practical everyday bikes? Are they faster on the road than a hardtail with slicks?
All bikes need to be flat barred (perhaps a not to be missed drop bar deal might make this negotiable).
Any advice on bike buying for a one bike does commuting, leisure riding and annual loaded tour?
Which is best to get?
A hybrid could be a lighter and potentially faster option for less money. The tourers seem to be 15kg beasts that are overkill for day to day use. However tour with a hybrid you're probably going to regret not getting a tourer. Or are you?
BTW hybrid would be something that can take front pannier rack (pinnacle do one as do trek and specialized iirc).
Then you can buy aluminium frame / steel forked tourers for £700-800. Are these worth looking at? Double for an all steel? If you're used to touring on a bombproof aluminium hardtail would you notice and appreciate full steel tourer? Do they make practical everyday bikes? Are they faster on the road than a hardtail with slicks?
All bikes need to be flat barred (perhaps a not to be missed drop bar deal might make this negotiable).
Any advice on bike buying for a one bike does commuting, leisure riding and annual loaded tour?