Going to get a dedicated commuter for work in the New Year. Ride is between 12-16 miles each way and for the money they look ace.
Want guards and panniers.
Worth a punt or perhaps a quality second hand bike is a better idea?
I know little to nothing when it comes to road bikes so suggestions/advice greatly received.
They've got a certain retro appeal to them I'd agree, and for the money (~£400) it looks OK as a commuter. Might want/need to upgrade/replace some of the components in time as you gets what you pay for.
That's what concerns me. Don't want to have to pay more for kit almost immediately. I guess that risk is there with anything I buy.
The Royal I had in 1968 was a fine bike. 5-speed, cottered cranks, Mavic brakes. It took me from the NE down to Ipswich & back, & across the Lakes.
A modern version might be even better.
This guy's done a fair few miles on one and seems pretty happy with it:
[url= http://irishbackwoods.blogspot.ie/2012/06/raleigh-royal-reviewed.html?m=1 ]Link[/url]
CTC seem to think that a Revolution Country Traveller is much better value for money:
[url= http://www.ctc.org.uk/file/member/201201058.pdf ]Link[/url]
Even better when you look at this price:
[url= http://www.edinburghbicycle.com/products/revolution-country-traveller-13 ]£380.00[/url]
Your [s]nostalgia[/s]logic is much appreciated.
Cheers for that shermer, reckon that would be a better fit!
Unless you're going to load it up and go touring a 30lb+ bike is going to make for a dull commute 🙁
Sonething like the Ribble audax would be a lort more versatile and fun for £600.
Half that on ebay.
Revolution Country Traveller is amazing value...if you also intend to tour or commute year round.
I still run a 1984 Raleigh Classic for winter commute