Ladies Audax/ tour bikes

[jen80]

I have been looking for a ladies audax/ light tourer bike for some time - I have a budget of a maximum of £700 (so am really looking for something second hand). So far I havent had much luck - everything I have tried is either too big (I am 5ft 4) or has problems like toe overlap. I would be greatful for any advice on what to look for. I really want the bike as a commuter initially (so it has to have mudguards and pannier rack fittings) but also for light touring (prob carrying no more that 20kg) and fast leisure rides at weekends. This seems to be a massively tall order for any bike suitable for women...! Please help!

 

[lulubel]

I've got an entry level Trek WSD that I bought a few years ago, and it's done all that for me quite happily in the time I've owned it. (It's now minus racks and mudguards, and it's getting to play a being a pure road bike.) It cost me about £550 4 years ago, so I would think the equivalent would be about £700 new now.

 

[Baggy]

I know a lot depends on your body proportions and some people do get on better with WSD, but I'm 5'4" and a bit and have always ridden standard frames. My bikes are 49-50cm. On the 50cm versions I have had to make a few changes, adding shorter stems and narrower bars. I have slight toe overlap on one bike when it's fitted with mudguards, but it's not ever been an issue.

It might be worth looking at Kona bikes, they come in a wide size range - I have a 49cm and it came with shorter cranks, narrow bars and fits really well. The Kona Honky Tonk is a great all rounder, I know a couple of smaller people who own them (including one 5'3" woman) and use them for day rides, commuting etc. They'll take a rack and mudguards. The only downside is that they don't come with a triple.

The Kona Dew Drop is ideal for commuting, touring etc, and is also suitable for Audaxes although it's not a lightweight bike and doesn't look as nice as the Honky Tonk IMO!