Another what bike...IHG, belt driven, all purpose...

Hobbers85
Hobbers85 Posts: 30
edited June 2011 in Commuting general
Dear all

I am after an "all purpose" bike which I can use for most scenarios. I live by the River Thames so most of its time will be spent on the tow path with some mild off roading. I may also use it to commute to work (15 miles each way) which I would want to do in around 1hr 15mins so it can't be too sluggish on the road either.

I'd like an IHG (alfine 8 or 11) due to the lower maintenance and as I'm not concerned about the extra weight. I may also use panieers or a rear rack for days out. The addition of a belt drive would be great given the reduced maintenance and no grease to stain my clothes!

I've put together the following shortlist but none of the bikes quite hit the mark:

1. Genesis Day 01 Alfine - not too keen on the orange paint. I want something that will last for years and not in a "fashionable colour."

http://www.genesisbikes.co.uk/bikes/cro ... -01-alfine

2. VSF Simplicity 8HCT - difficult to obtain a test drive in the uk!

http://www.fahrradmanufaktur.de/?page_id=2065

3. Trek Soho DLX - Looks to tick all the boxes but have heard mixed reviews concerning the braking.

http://www.evanscycles.com/products/tre ... gn=froogle

4. Civic Bryant - this looks to be the best option but is too expensive at £1500.

http://www.civiacycles.com/bikes/bryant/

6. On one pompetamine - not 100% sold on the styling (colour)

http://www.on-one.co.uk/i/q/CBOOPOMPETV ... mine-versa

So the question is, does anyone have any comments on the above list which may sway my decision or can make an additional suggestion. I don't want to spend over £1000 and obviously the cheaper the better!

Thanks!

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