That's a magnificent bike! Everything about the aesthetic is perfect IMO. Surly is wonderful. Thanks for the great pics.I had a great ride this morning along the C&O Canal on my trusty Surly Cross Check. Here’s a few happy snaps:
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Thanks! I really appreciate it. I put a lot of work into that Cross Check and just love it. Not the fastest sled, but it will darn sure go anywhere and look good doing it.That's a magnificent bike! Everything about the aesthetic is perfect IMO. Surly is wonderful. Thanks for the great pics.
Just snapping with the iPhone as I go!
I actually rode longer. Just realizing now that the app missed the whole north side of the trails.
There were plenty of sketchy root sections where the bike just starts sliding diagonally. There was an exposed braided steel cable (old bridge?), and a bridge with a section missing. The place could use more trail markers, too.
I'm looking for recommendations on buying a new bike. I'm looking for a road bike for casual daily cycling (not commuting). How do you recommend that I get started? Inflation in bike prices continues. I'm looking at a $800 to $1500 range. Used? New?
Brand? Size? I looked at a custom bike manufacturer and they want $3000 for a basic, no-frills, custom bike. Too high for me.
Used is an excellent option if you are experienced at inspecting/maintaining/upgrading/repairing a bike yourself. Otherwise I recommend a new bike.
I think that the steel frame Fuji Touring is an outstanding new bike bargain. It is designed as a touring bike. It comes with drop bars, a triple chainwheel, good components, bar end indexed shifting, and a rear rack. I find the middle chainwheel ideal for casual riding in urban neighborhoods.
All at the low end of your price spectrum with rim brakes. I think a disc model is available. You would likely have to special order through a Fuji dealer.
I use mine as a robust sport bike and for longer range errands. It would also make a good commuter (add fenders) or a higher performance utility bike (add panniers). With 32mm tires it is a decent gravel/dirt road bike.
I have a light sport bike, a utility bike, a sadly unused touring bike, and an old mountain/gravel bike, so I don't take advantage of all of the Fuji Touring's potential. If I was getting only one bike and spending less than $1000, the Fuji Touring would be it.