from commuting to the l'etape....a bike for all seasons?

monty345

Hello everybody,

any help on this would be most welcome:

I commute on a Ridgeback Horizon 20miles in and 20miles back each day winter/summer and want to move up a notch on my equipment........but also I am thinking about 09 or 2010 for a go at the l'etape. I'm planning to get in longer rides, but continue to build on the 150+ miles per week.

The bike i'm looking for has to do pretty much everything.....commute in summer for fast time trials and winter slogs - but also be good enough, light and geared for BIG rides....all for about 1000 pounds'ish......I'm thinking a 7005 tube, shimano triple as must haves but not sure on who provides best comfort/speed frame design or components?

Big ask - but any ideas?? :roll:
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wiffachip

actually I've been considering a ridgeback horizon as a bike for all seasons, what is it that you don't like about it ?
or what do you like about it
it seems to tick all your boxes

iga

As Wiffachip says, it sounds like you've the right sort of bike as it is, so perhaps something like the Dawes Audax Supreme, Byercycles Aravis or Kinesis Racelight T would be an upgrade on frame and components. For £1,000 you're close on custom territory if you choose the components right, Bob Jackson, Hewitt et al.

monty345

Thanks guys - appreciate the replies.

The Ridgeback is fine for the commute, I was just not sure the frame and equipment would get me up the bigger hills. I like the ridgeback, but feel its a bit behind on the standard of equipment I'd like - I'll check out your recommendations.

I'll be using the ridgeback as a winter bike, and the new one for 'dry' riding only (very difficult in Scotland!).

Cheers, and again, thanks for taking the time.