Which is a better commuter bike?

Since 2001, over 90,000 cyclist's have joined Cycling Forums to discuss topics from general cycling to equipment, training, racing and travel or vacation destinations (especially in europe during the tour de france). We also feature an great deals in our online store, 100's of articles, classifieds and product reviews.

The 7 and 8 speed gearhubs are pretty good but heavy. A hybrid with a 34t rear sprocket would allow hill climbing without perspiration.

The used tenspeed idea is no good. Tucking your slacks into your sock or using a strap will not suffice; you'll still get chain rash (stains). Many of those bikes did not come with sealed wheels and waterborne grit will soon ruin the bearings. You will also want to clean the chain frequently if you want it to last in wet weather. The brake pads will slowly eat the wheels, also due to waterborne grit. Also, so many of those freewheel bikes seem to have a bent rear axle.

I love those bikes, having been using an '84 Schwinn for the past year. They're just not what I would choose for a commute in the rain.