Is this bicycle good for commuting? Say 12 miles round trip, five days a week on paved and some small flat dirt roads?
2065883
If the route is flat you're probably ok. I have the cruiser for riding around my neighborhood and hills are a little brutal with the single gear.
2065884
My response is "no" for two reasons. First, I would recommend a bicycle with gears (3-speed, 10-speed, etc.) for that kind of distance twice a day. Second, the circumference of the gear that turns the bicycle chain is smaller than most beach bikes. This is significant because the rider of this bike has to pedal faster to go the same speed as other bikes. I wish I had known this before I bought this bike! I find it difficult to keep up with my friends, even though I am pedaling faster than they are!
210585
I just counted 53 by 16. With a comfortable cadence I can ride 12 to 15 mph all day. Hills aren't a big challenge either since the bike is so light. Hope it helps!
41085
It depends on your commute, but in many cases, sure! My commute is only 2 miles, but there are 3 hills (overpasses) for which the 6 speeds are helpful. On straight road, road bikes pass me easily though. It's because the included gear ratios aren't enough to compensate for the smaller wheels. However, this is true for nearly all folding bikes. Regarding the concern about the tires, they're fine for roads. If your commute is off road, you can get more appropriate tires, but then this is not really an offroad bike. I'm planning to put a bottle of slime in the tires just in case. This bike would be great for where I used to work, where the parking lot was nearly a mile from some of the offices. It depends on your commute, but in many cases, sure! My commute is only 2 miles, but there are 3 hills (overpasses) for which the 6 speeds are helpful. On straight road, road bikes pass me easily though. It's because the included gear ratios aren't enough to compensate for the smaller wheels. However, this is true for nearly all folding bikes. Regarding the concern about the tires, they're fine for roads. If your commute is off road, you can get more appropriate tires, but then this is not really an offroad bike. I'm planning to put a bottle of slime in the tires just in case. This bike... » Read More It depends on your commute, but in many cases, sure! My commute is only 2 miles, but there are 3 hills (overpasses) for which the 6 speeds are helpful. On straight road, road bikes pass me easily though. It's because the included gear ratios aren't enough to compensate for the smaller wheels. However, this is true for nearly all folding bikes. Regarding the concern about the tires, they're fine for roads. If your commute is off road, you can get more appropriate tires, but then this is not really an offroad bike. I'm planning to put a bottle of slime in the tires just in case. This bike would be great for where I used to work, where the parking lot was nearly a mile from some of the offices. « Show Less
1982132
I weigh about 180lbs and will go about 10 miles at full speed on mostly flat terrain. I have thought about a spare battery, but have not found a good way to carry one with me.... I could imagine if I commuted to work or somewhere regularly keeping a spare battery to switch out.
2277929
Yes, and I love this bike! It's a great piece of exercise equipment. I ride 12 miles per day on it, it's been great.
1102947
I own this bike and i'm obsessed with it. That being said, I commute around the Greater NYCArea CONSTANTLY. I went over the Brooklyn bridge (pretty inclined) the other day and found it to be very difficult (being a one speed bike). If you know you will be dealing with hills frequently I'd say to go with the speeds... but otherwise this bike is extremely portable, eye catching (compliments at least once a day), and convenient. Good luck on your decision.
2258677
yes, there are a couple of hills in town that have to be used to get back home. My three-speed works fine for me. A friend of mine loved the bike so much she bought one, but with 5 speeds. I love this bike, you won't regret buying it.
260011
I personally think it is great for the road... but I am no biking expert! I have done a few 20 milers... but that is about it, mostly just 5 or 6 miles at a time. But, the seat is very comfortable to me.
1263317
Hey Digs, The longest ride I have done was 35miles, and it was pretty comfortable. I wouldn't know how it would feel on 60mile rides though. I was getting a bit sore around 35 miles though but I am not sure if you are suppose to feel sore around that many miles. Hill climbing is still great on this bike. The only concern or problem i have is that the seat post to the handle bars is a little short. And when you have both your feet parallel to the ground and you turn the wheel, it tends to hit your foot. If you have more cash to spare, get the $1,900 kestral RT 1000.
1179190
no , it's a fixed wheel, the big fixed front wheel is a better choice for serious miles outside - if you want something for walking and taking to the store find an adjustable wheel.
289970
You're riding on street right? I would assume since you're looking for a road bike. I owned one for awhile. When I first got it, the rim was bent, contacted amazon, the shipped a new bike out and told me to take what I needed and ship it back. If you're tall, it may be a little to small. I'm 5ft 11 and it was fine for me. The only issue is the pedals are kinda low, so if you take a sharp turn and your foot is extended all the way your pedal will hit the asphalt. If I were you, I would save up extra $$ and get a better bike. It's a decent bike but you spend a few hundred more and get a lot better bike.
1445177
It depends on your bike and how heavy you are somewhere between 30 and 35 miles an hour.. But there are many upgrades and you can go faster.. Safe riding be careful.. ;)
1359291
I would say no, It would be fine for an occasional commute, but for a regular 15 mile commute no. There is only one gear, and it is low so hills are quite a workout. and the seat is very firm and the tires are 20 inch so there is no suspension so you feel the road. If you are going to regularly commute 15 miles get one with a more comfortable seat and larger tires.
615152
like the bike a lot, should be OK for you, but I agree will not get you up a hill...you need more power...
1697149
i would say no, you would probably want a 12inch bike. but that is based off my experience
517965
David Brinkmeyer is spot on with his answer. It is a great bike but if you are going to be hauling a load you should step up to higher quality bike with more gears and better brakes.
588127
This style and actual bike would be a good choice. It should be manageable in terms of weight versus size.