Buying commuter/leisure bike for gf

goatherbs

Hi

I'm looking to buy a new bike for my gf. she will mostly be using it for commuting (15 mile round trip) on roads with plenty of potholes and light paths. we also go out at weekends riding where we can sometimes end up on some quite rocky trails and muddy paths. Obviously i'm looking at buying her a hybrid for these reasons and was looking at getting something with front suspension for the weekend riding but have been told to stay away from front suspension on hybrids as it adds to the weight a lot and solid forks would be fine for the weekend riding. what are peoples thoughts on this? looking to spend Between £200-£400 if anyone has any recommendations?

andy9964

Decathlon - this bike takes 32mm tyres, which should be adequate

http://www.decathlon.co.uk/triban-520-f ... 22799.html

Sleeper Service

What kind of style is she looking for - step through, ladies geometry, unisex, etc?

alan_sherman

I ride a Giant hybrid to work. I need guards and a rack plus pannier bags for the commute. I'd recommend the new model of mine based on my experience.
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-gb/bik ... 208/77310/

Not sure how rocky a path you may end up on but I commute on a gravel tow path which is fine and have ridden my bike off road in the snow. I did ride a bit of the Forest of Dean XC track on it, but to be honest something with fatter tyres and suspension would be more comfortable (but hard work for the 7 mile commute).

PS - I'd also recommend getting a dynamo hub front wheel / light combo for winter commuting.

alan_sherman

Just saw this on the decathlon site - worth a look if there is one near you:
http://www.decathlon.co.uk/hoprider-300 ... 07663.html
Lights, rack, guards, 15.6 kg. for £230. Maybe the gears are made of cheese or something.

The Rookie

Have a look at the Voodoo Marasa as well, basically a rigid 29er MTB on hybrid tyres, great value, tyres could be better though.