Commuter Bike

Question
Hi Howard,

I am looking for a bike to use while commuting around Washington, DC, a
little south of your area of expertise, but still the right side of the country.

Anyway, I am looking for a light, durable bike to make the 20-30 minute
commute to work. I am an athlete and am an experienced bike-commuter,
having spent my last year biking around Berlin on a very basic Schwinn road
bike. I would like to be able to use this bike on weekends for day trips and
excercise.

I am willing to spend between 200-800 dollars. Like everyone, I am looking
for the best quality for a good price.

I went into a local store and the fellow there recommended the Trek FX 7.3.

What would you recommend? Thanks!

Rachel

Answer
Hi Rachel,

Personally, I feel that a commuting bike should be more rugged and durable than a road/exercise/weekend bike. There's a tradeoff between lightness and durability.

Most commuters have a separate commuting bike--this is what I have, and what I recommend. Commuting takes a lot more out of your bike--you're dealing with more stopping and starting, potholes, debris at the edge of the streets, and bad weather when it starts to rain in the afternoon and you have to ride home in it.

Your commute isn't very long, so you don't need a lightweight bike for it. Trek is an excellent brand and you can't go wrong with it. I'd go to the Trek website (http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/) and look at the Urban, Bike Path, and Womens categories. I also like a step-thru frame, which makes it much easier to get on and off the bike.
The Navigator 2.0 WSD and 3.0 WSD has this feature.

Hope this helps,
Howard