D
Don Whybrow
Guest
[email protected] wrote:
> My company is doing the cycle to work scheme (through Hellfords - but
> they'll source most bikes) and it seems rude not to add a third to the
> stable. Plus, I've hankered after a single speed for a while.
>
> I was initially thinking about the Langster - that many London
> commuters can't be wrong and it seems like quite a lot of bike for my
> buck. However, I'm now seriously tempted by the Genesis Skyliner.
>
> I'm looking for a single-speed all-year-round commuter (just over 6
> miles each way). I'm actually hanking after a fixie - but I assume
> there's no reason not to get a flip flop hub?
>
> I've cast an eye over the usual suspects (langster, genesis flyer, il
> pompino, kona paddy wagon, pearson touche, pista, charge plug) but
> don't have any particularly strong feelings regarding any of them. I
> believe the pista and charge plug are a little pricey and heavy,
> respectively, for what they are but that's about it.
>
> Is there anything I'm overlooking? Any bikes I really ought to be
> considering? I was drawn to the skyline because of the flyer's rave
> reviews and my need for mudguards.
>
> I like the idea of building my own up, but if I want to take advantage
> of the tax breaks I need to buy a complete bike.
>
> Any advice gratefully recieved!
I can't comment on the Skyline, but I got a Touche through the cycle to
work scheme last summer. I also had to get it via Halfords. I found the
whole experience very easy. The people at Halfords have dealt with
Pearson many time in the past and have a good working relationship. Will
at Pearson knows his stuff and speccing the bike was a doddle.
My principle use is for a 6+ mile each way commute in Edinburgh with a
few changes in altitude. I cycle the commute all year round and I have
it fitted with mudguards. I could have gone for a fixed/single
flip-flop, but opted for a double fixed with different sprocket sizes.
So far I have only used the 48/18 ratio. If I didn't have a particular
hill on the commute, I would be tempted to use a smaller sprocket.
I find the frame light, stiff and responsive. I find that I am faster
over the commute than when I take either of my geared bikes although the
top end speed going down the hill above is not as fast.
It is my preferred bike, when I need to use one of the others because
they are a better fit for the conditions the decision is always with a
bit of regret that I couldn't be on the fixed.
Just because you have a complete fixie doesn't mean you cant build up
another one. I have one I am putting together as well as a long term, as
the mood fits, project.
--
Don Whybrow
Sequi Bonum Non Time
"To communicate with Mars, converse with spirits, To report the
behaviour of the sea monster, Describe the horoscope,
haruspicate or scry, Observe disease in signatures." (T.S.Eliot)
> My company is doing the cycle to work scheme (through Hellfords - but
> they'll source most bikes) and it seems rude not to add a third to the
> stable. Plus, I've hankered after a single speed for a while.
>
> I was initially thinking about the Langster - that many London
> commuters can't be wrong and it seems like quite a lot of bike for my
> buck. However, I'm now seriously tempted by the Genesis Skyliner.
>
> I'm looking for a single-speed all-year-round commuter (just over 6
> miles each way). I'm actually hanking after a fixie - but I assume
> there's no reason not to get a flip flop hub?
>
> I've cast an eye over the usual suspects (langster, genesis flyer, il
> pompino, kona paddy wagon, pearson touche, pista, charge plug) but
> don't have any particularly strong feelings regarding any of them. I
> believe the pista and charge plug are a little pricey and heavy,
> respectively, for what they are but that's about it.
>
> Is there anything I'm overlooking? Any bikes I really ought to be
> considering? I was drawn to the skyline because of the flyer's rave
> reviews and my need for mudguards.
>
> I like the idea of building my own up, but if I want to take advantage
> of the tax breaks I need to buy a complete bike.
>
> Any advice gratefully recieved!
I can't comment on the Skyline, but I got a Touche through the cycle to
work scheme last summer. I also had to get it via Halfords. I found the
whole experience very easy. The people at Halfords have dealt with
Pearson many time in the past and have a good working relationship. Will
at Pearson knows his stuff and speccing the bike was a doddle.
My principle use is for a 6+ mile each way commute in Edinburgh with a
few changes in altitude. I cycle the commute all year round and I have
it fitted with mudguards. I could have gone for a fixed/single
flip-flop, but opted for a double fixed with different sprocket sizes.
So far I have only used the 48/18 ratio. If I didn't have a particular
hill on the commute, I would be tempted to use a smaller sprocket.
I find the frame light, stiff and responsive. I find that I am faster
over the commute than when I take either of my geared bikes although the
top end speed going down the hill above is not as fast.
It is my preferred bike, when I need to use one of the others because
they are a better fit for the conditions the decision is always with a
bit of regret that I couldn't be on the fixed.
Just because you have a complete fixie doesn't mean you cant build up
another one. I have one I am putting together as well as a long term, as
the mood fits, project.
--
Don Whybrow
Sequi Bonum Non Time
"To communicate with Mars, converse with spirits, To report the
behaviour of the sea monster, Describe the horoscope,
haruspicate or scry, Observe disease in signatures." (T.S.Eliot)
