Opinions wanted on Novara bikes

[foxfirefey]

Soooo I am apparently a member at REI which means until 4/18 I can get 20% off of a Novara bike, and I kind of like the looks of the Novara Mia 2010. Would this be a decent idea? I'm thinking I could probably try it out at my local REI. It's certainly not my only option; I could also go for a used cycle at Recyled Cycles. It's starting to get very nice outside, and I think I might want to start testing out bike commuting.

Comments

[juliet]

If you're not planning on using it for actual mountain biking, front suspension is usually not a great idea. It makes the bike more effort to ride (because some of your pedalling energy is lost in the bouncing of the suspension, as well as the fact that front sus forks are just heavier than non-sus ones!), & as it's not necessary on-road, there's no real positive tradeoff.

Other than that I don't know anything about Novara. Definitely do try out before buying, though!

[aedifica]

I'm told front suspension is helpful for people with wrist problems, because it reduces the impact on the hands. That's why I chose it when I was shopping for my hybrid.

[foxfirefey]

I'll have to keep that in mind--I currently have a hinky right wrist. I'm trying to get it fixed, but my appointment with the specialist isn't for another month, and I don't even know what's wrong yet.