Urban Bikes
The term "urban" refers to a spectrum of bicycles that have begun to appear in the last ten years. Some are simply road racing bikes that have flat, mountain bike style handlebars. Others are merely mountain bikes with smooth tires. The majority fall somewhere in between. Many represent fairly radical departures from previous market segments. These come from a new design philosophy that aims to create pragmatic commuting bikes.
All of the bikes that carry the urban designation have flat handlebars and, usually, a frame geometry that encourages a more upright riding posture. An upright posture takes the strain off your back that riding bent over causes. You lose a legible amount of speed in exchange for greater comfort. More important for the commuter, riding upright increases your field of vision. Some of these bikes use the 622 by 40 mm wheels found on touring bikes while others use the 26 inch wheels of mountain bikes for maximum strength. Here are some examples of urban bikes that I've test ridden or at least drooled over.
- Novara Big Buzz: Well thought out urban speed machine. $800.
- Scott Sub 10: Available with 700 cm or 26 inch wheels. $800.
- Cannondale Bad Boy: A city-mountain bike. $800-$1200.
- Jamis Coda and Allegro: Jamis has two urban product lines.