Giant CRX 0 or CRX 1?

elguapo

Hi all,

I have, in the last 6 months, taken up commuting to work in the Melbourne CBD 2 to 3 times a week. The round trip is 46km's and to date I have been riding a 17 year old Giant Yukon MTB (Biopace cranks anyone?? ). Whilst this bike has been fine I am now at the point where I wish to purchase a new bike with gearing more suited to road riding. I have settled on a Giant CRX but I am not able to decide between the CRX 0 or the CRX 1. The main differentiator seems to be the disc brakes on the CRX 0. If I base my reasoning on RRP is the CRX 0 ($1995) worth $600 more than the CRX 1 ($1395)? With the exception of the seatpost, wheels, tyres, stem, rear derailleur and bar the bikes seemed to be indentically spec'd. Given that I could take or leave any of these are disc brakes worth the extra dollars?

Finally, can anyone recommend a Giant dealer in Melbourne who specialises in good old fashioned service, both pre and post sale, rather than a flashy show room packed to the rafters. Of course if there is a dealer out there with a flashy show room and excellent service I would be more than happy to consider them.

TIA

Elguapo

thomas_cho

Hi there, firstly congratulations on your decision to ride to work.

Okay if disc brakes were the only "upgrades" I would go the crx 1. V-brakes work just as well. $600 just doesnt justify it.

I personally would consider the CRX City just because I am interested in having a internal hubbed bike.

Do you intend to ride to work with panniers? or just use a backpack? The $600 "saved" can be put towards racks, panniers, shoes, clipless pedals, helmet, gloves, rainjacket, road pump, spare tubes, and lights (dont scrimp on these). Of course you may already have many of these, but the point is the $600 can be better spent.

What made you decide on the CRX? There are also dedicated touring bikes like the Viventi World Randonneur, which are designed for bike touring, and as such designed to give you a nice comfortable riding position. They generally have a longer wheelbase which contributes to stability.

Keep posting!

thepeddler

You may have already considered this, but as both these bikes appear to have double cranks, is that enough gears for you ride into work? Are there big hills that may require more gears?

Otherwise, I agree with Thomas and go with the CRX 1 and spend the difference on accessories.

thomas_cho

They have compact gearing. Should be more than sufficient unless you got major hills.

elguapo

I am coming in from the West of Melbourne. Flat as a pancake. The biggest hill is Collins St between Swanston St and Russell St.

JeremyP

Perhaps a CRX City Pro?

Best to go to a shop close to your home as you don't want to travel to the other side of town for a service, or deal with issues which may arise.