OP
Grumblebum
Well-known member
I do not blame you a bit for being road-wary. Australia is on the whole really bad in its attitude to cyclists.
Firstly , in my defence, it is well known that the ideal number of bikes one should own is n+1, where n= the number of bikes you currently own.
bike 1 : I have an old aluminium frame , front suspension mountain bike that I bought 25 years ago , and I still use this in Narooma as my "shopping" bike . I have put smooth tyres on it just like you did and I love this bike as it is like the energiser bunny. I used to use it for bush bashing. Starting to need some money spent on it , have almost worn through the rims ( due to brakes)
bike 2 : bought this specifically to commute to work , probably my thought processes exactly matched yours . Giant Cross-city commuter , not disc brakes but otherwise looks like the one you are considering .Great bike , this is currently at Narooma - fishing bike and Kayak trailer hauling bike. Need those gears !
bike 3 - cyclocross bike - drop handlebars but has extra set of brake levers at the top , I hardly ever needed to use the drops. Disc brakes, light bike but built tough . Not currently using it but WILL again. Most enjoyable bike to ride , and you CAN ride it on the grass as they were designed to ride in mud.
bike 4 & 5 : Expensive road bikes with CF frames and top of the line parts , bought as "last years model" - ride both but have them set up a lot differently . I should really pick one to sell... but..
bike 6 : Weapon of choice ...foldable bike with 16" wheels. Its a riot . I can ride to the pub and ride it home. I can catch a taxi home . You can go with this , you can go with that.. Can carry 2 cases of beer on the back rack . Love it. Literally looks like a bike a clown would ride in a circus. Everyone gives you a big grin as you pass by.. They're thinking " I would not be seen DEAD riding that thing " . But , ride it I do.
Yes , do not wear anything on your back unless it is a one-off for extra stuff not fitting into your panniers ! PS I use that exact same Topeak pannier bag with the fold out sides - love it !!!
Thanks Greg
.Cheers GB.


oh well I'll keep chipping away at it.




I would have happily grabbed a 2016 or 2017 model had they had disc options and were at a good discount (some are only $100 off at most from the newer models), but then again as soon as I saw that charcoal black 2018 I would have struggled anyway.
. I'll see if I can find some hardwood pallets to use as a timber base on each shelf. Haven't decided yet if I paint them or go for the rusty look.