Hybrid, for sure, though it doesn't have to be too upright...drop bars, or
at least a little more stretched out position, are very comfortable for
longer rides. Too upright puts the pounding on your bum. Better front/rear
distribution makes for a more comfortable ride once you get in shape, also
makes the bike handle better (more equal weight distribution front and rear)
and if you're sitting upright, you block more wind, therefore slow yourself
down. If you're not an experienced rider you will probably blow that off
and go for upright, though. If you have long legs/short torso for your
height, a "ladies" model might fit you well, but the chances are it's a more
upright position and a ladies frame (unless you're wearing a dress while
you're riding) is not optimum for frame geometry for handling or for
positioning of the rear brakes.
Often the rear brakes on women's models are not as good because they have to
make them "fit" the frame configuration. They don't perform as well and
they need adjusting more often. Different if they are disk brakes, though,
in the case of the Cypress SX. If you buy a frame that fits you properly
(with enough clearance to avoid injuring yourself on the top tube if you
have to dismount on uneven terrain) a ladies frame is not necessary, unless
you have a physical disability that prevents you from throwing your leg over
to get on. FWIW, I'm a woman ( I used to work in a shop) and I have very
short legs so have trouble getting enough clearance over the top tube and I
STILL would never buy a woman's frame.
Fat tires are better in deep sand, but otherwise, unless you're a real clutz
and have poor handling skills, you'd probably be better off with the 700c
wheels of the Cypress. Comfy seat does not necessarily mean bigger seat.
All seats hurt until you get into shape. Once you're in shape, smaller is
better, less to chafe you and bruise you. Also, the wheelbase on the
Cypress is likely longer (with longer chainstays) than the Sedona, so less
chance of hitting the panniers with your heals. Big wheels are also more
efficient on the road.
Brakes can vary, if you keep them clean they will last longer. I don't know
about discs, sorry have never owned them. If ladies frame, standard brakes
will be less reliable and probably wear faster. Pads are not hard to change
and adjust--have someone teach you or take a class on bike maintenance.
It's cheaper to do your own, plus if you know how to do stuff, you can make
repairs if you break down on your way to or from work. Invaluable.
Most locks only slow thieves down. Some don't even do that. See if you can
find a place to take it into work. I used to remove the front wheel and put
it under the desk in my cube. Beg your employer for safe parking inside. If
you can't, spray paint your bike so it looks like **** and that might deter
some thieves.
Rear Panniers and rack trunk are probably all you need. You probably don't
need front panniers, unless you're going to carry lots of stuff to work or
start touring.
Buy your bike and accessories from a good full-service local bike shop.
They have the experience to help you do it right. You'll never regret
better information and buying better products. It's much cheaper than buying
the wrong stuff that's poorly made--you lose money trading up later.
Be sure you have lots of lights all over you and your bike. A helmet mounted
headlight is great. You can see better (and light the way where you want to
go, not just where the handlebars are pointed) and you can stare down car
drivers with your beam so they can't say they didn't see you.
I'd pick the Cypress SX out of the lot of Giant models.
Three most important purchase after the bike itself:
1. Helmet
2. Gloves
3. Spare tube and frame pump (and a multi-tool) to keep on the bike for
breakdowns.
4. Proper bike shorts
Good luck!
--
ie
ride fast, take chances.
<
[email protected]> wrote in message
news:
[email protected]...
Newbie question:
Am about to embark on a bike commute to work.
Route is appx 6 mi. one way, 80% paved, 20% gravel, mud, tree roots,
sand. One monster hill for about 1.5 miles at the end.
I plan on starting at about 2-3 days per week.
Safety trumps speed for me.
I, yes, geek that I am, I will be using some sidewalks to
start/build confidence.
Bike will also be used for light errand runs and recreational
use on about 80% paved paths.
I need an upright position and comfy seat.
Prefer ladies frame, 21" or more, but not a dealbreaker.
Am looking at Giant Cypress line or Sedona line.
· Not sure which model to get within each series.
Questions are:
· what's the cutoff for road vs. hybrid? My gut says get the
hybrid..but wanted opinions.
· do panniers cut at ankles?
· do single panniers throw off balance?
· Jandd seems like a good brand. Any experiences?
· how long do brakes generally last?
· does the shifter in the cypress vary from the Sedona?
· is kryptonite still the best lock?
thanks for your time and specific model recommendations.
