In article <[email hidden]>,
Mike said:I've walked into 3 bicycle shops looking for an improved commuter bike.
My mountain bike with stubby tires isn't cutting it for my 7-mile daily
commute (with a killer hill).In my mind, I decided I wanted a true road bike. The Fuji League seems to
fit the bill here nicely. Simple, low-priced, and fast.But at all three shops, they are trying to talk me into these "road bikes
with straight handle-bars". They say they are _not_ hybrids and are
closer to a true road bike. I believe the Raleigh C700 is one such bike
they are trying to sell me.I'm a pretty active person and would likely use this bike for exercise as
well.Why don't they want to sell me a road bike? Are they really
uncomfortable? Unfortunately with quick test rides, I really can't gauge
long-term comfort.
As Chalo will no doubt point out, a flat-bar bike really can be an
excellent road bike, particularly for commuters. Having said that, I
still prefer a drop bar on my commuters, and would insist on one if I
was buying a new bike.
Your shop was probably being a little paternalistic, as they may feel
that they know what you need better than you know. It's an
understandable attitude at times, but you can cut that stuff pretty
quick by clearly stating that you want a drop bar bike. If they remain
unhelpful or obstinate, make it clear that you will spend your money
where they will sell you what you want. There are *many* more than
three bicycle shops, and you can easily buy online (you do have a
computer, right?) if you have a good idea of what you want.