Trying to identify a Nippy Commute/Sportive/Audax/Light Tourer

[Wobblers]

Wow, i would pull the trigger, but at 6'2 ish i have a sneaking suspicion i need the large. thoughts?

At 6'2" the XL might be the better fit -though obviously it's better that you try one out for size if you're not sure.

 

[frank9755]

When I got my Ridgeback I rang them (Madison) up to get advice on sizing. I ended up talking to the guy who designed the bike and he gave me the right advice.

 

[GrumpyGregry]

At 6'2" the XL might be the better fit -though obviously it's better that you try one out for size if you're not sure.

I'm six-two and would be looking squarely at the XL model on that bike. I'd also have a word with Wiggle about their returns policy on bikes discounted as heavily as that one, just in case, as the website isn't entirely clear on the rules.

 

[Banjo]

If they would accept it back or you can confirm the XL will fit dont hesitate they will sell out like hot cakes.

 

[GrumpyGregry]

fwiw being bored and intrigued I checked online on another Ridgeback dealer's online sizing guide and the XL should be spot on for the average 6' 0" to 6' 3" peep apparently.

 

[Baggy]

Spa Cycles are selling the new Dawes Century SE for £715! That's a complete bargain My Husband (Chuffy) has just had one to test ride and review, and loved it.

 

[Capuchin]

It certainly sounds like you need an 'audax-type' bike - one suitable for fast day rides,light ('credit-card') touring and comfort.

I have a Condor Fratello

and it does exactly that. Not sure if it would come within budget, though

but if you are in London, I would highly recommend Condor Cycles - and that's a recommendation despite never having been there !

Wiggle don't offer test rides on anythign discounted more than 15%, and worried how i will get on with the ridgeback.

Going to pop down to london and talk to the condor guys this weekend. Will see how i get on.
Also gonna test ride a load at evans. have ordered in the charge for a test ride so i can feel the difference steel makes. Thanks to you guys i know better what i'm looking for.

Think i want a bike i will love a little bit

 

[frank9755]

Spa Cycles are selling the new Dawes Century SE for £715! That's a complete bargain My Husband (Chuffy) has just had one to test ride and review, and loved it.

I read a review of that at the weekend - it does look very pretty!

 

[vickster]

Might be worth trying On Your Bike at London Bridge while you are in town

They have some 2010 sale stock too (not sure how up to date this is)

http://www.onyourbike.com/files/file/Jan 2011v5.pdf

 

[Capuchin]

Might be worth trying On Your Bike at London Bridge while you are in town

They have some 2010 sale stock too (not sure how up to date this is)

http://www.onyourbik...an%202011v5.pdf

Planning on popping in here too. Anyone know of any other decent lbs's in central london i should pop into?

 

[vickster]

There are the two Evans branches near Waterloo, may as well look while there

Cycle Surgery in the West End another chain http://www.cyclesurg...ent/fcp-content

There is Apex on Clapham High Street - do lots of Marin, so may not offer too much more over On Your Bike

http://www.apexcycles.com/

But only 5 minutes from Clapham North on the Northern Line

 

[frank9755]

Central London is not great for bike shops! Especially if you want something that is non-mainstream.

I think the best ones have been mentioned already. If you go to Condor, On Your Bike (which is my regular shop) and the branch of Evans on The Cut (who sometimes have a Dawes Audax / Sportive in stock), then you will have seen what there is to see.

 

[GrumpyGregry]

velorution is rather good at the non-mainstream but not for this niche.

 

[Clandy]

How about a Moulton TSR 30? All the gears you could want, comfortable over long distances, nippy, light.

 

[Woz!]

I've got the Ridgeback Voyage XL frame and still needed a taller seat post (I'm 6 foot 3...and possibly a bit, with long legs).
Very nice bike, although not light. Very solid steel tourer. I think it's very very good for the price.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/dvf-woz/3616541292/in/set-72157617220313701/