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

[darkemeralds]

That's a nice-looking bike!

Depending on where you live, consider the cost of a few key add-ons if you're going to commute regularly: fenders, lights, and possibly a rear rack with bungees if you don't always want everything to go into a messenger bag or the like. Also maybe a kickstand.

On the suspension fork: Clyde, my cruiser, has that and frankly, the wrist and arm comfort it adds is worth any tradeoff in efficiency for me personally. Something to consider when test-riding.

[foxfirefey]

It comes with a kickstand, woo! I'll definitely need fenders and lights. I think maybe I'll get a rear rack with bungees, but later on.