Which models to try ?

[Palmthree]

Hello,

- Europe.
- I don't usually cycle
- I want to use a bicycle on a daily basis (to do without the car as much as possible)
- I need a confortable bike (for my back and my weak knees), probably a upright position and a step-through design
- I would like to go "everywhere" : roads, some natural and easy paths, some pretty hard/long hill (so, probably mid-drive, between 50Nm and 70Nm maybe because more powerful motors are too expensive)
- A child will be on the bike a lot and I'd like some accessories (panniers and a basket on the front)
- Good lightning required ; maybe a u-lock for short stops
- I don't know a thing about the apps and usually don't use a smartphone but if I have to...
- I have tested a Como 4 IGH ; it was nice, a little bit heavy, I liked the look, the belt and the transmission but it was really expensive and I fear it will be stolen in my area. Plus, I've only tested this one. I've heard that Specialized accessories are expensive and "only for Specialized". If possible, I would like a more open bike.

Could you recommend some models for me to try out or read up on? Over the next few months, I'll be gradually making the rounds of the local shops.

Thank you very much!

 

[Jeremy McCreary]

Welcome aboard! You've given us a lot to go on, but it would be helpful to know up front how much you're willing to spend.

You mentioned knees. Everyone's bum knees are different. Mine object most to strong accelerations below 60-70 RPM cadence — e.g., when starting out, or for sudden bursts of speed in traffic.

May not be applicable in Europe, but offloading those accelerations to my progressive, on-demand throttle keeps my knees happy. The throttle gets little use otherwise, but I find it well worth having for that reason alone.

Mid-drives with throttles are uncommon but do exist — at least here in North America.

Good luck!

 

[Palmthree]

Hi !

Welcome aboard! You've given us a lot to go on, but it would be helpful to know up front how much you're willing to spend.

I've tried to be helpful for the helpful people !
My area is pretty insecure and my knowledge about bikes is limited so it something between "less is better" and "not that much" with a possibility of "Oh, it's worth it !".

Mid-drives with throttles are uncommon but do exist — at least here in North America.

It seems to be less choice here, in Europe and the speed is limited.

Everyone's bum knees are different.

My pain is frequent when I have to apply a lot of pressure ; it's also due to poor posture, which I'm hoping to correct a little by cycling.

 

[JenniferA]

You might want to look at the Orbea Diem. I just ordered one for myself yesterday. It has an 85Nm Shimano mid-drive and comes with everything needed for city riding. The rear rack can be upgraded to accept a child seat and there are options for front rack and high beam headlights. You can have a standard chain/derailleur combination (cheapest) or internal gear hub/gates belt options for more money. It is expensive but may be in the “Oh, it’s worth it!” category. And at around 23 kg much lighter than the Como and other similarly equipped bikes.

 

[Palmthree]

You might want to look at the Orbea Diem. I just ordered one for myself yesterday. It has an 85Nm Shimano mid-drive and comes with everything needed for city riding. The rear rack can be upgraded to accept a child seat and there are options for front rack and high beam headlights. You can have a standard chain/derailleur combination (cheapest) or internal gear hub/gates belt options for more money. It is expensive but may be in the “Oh, it’s worth it!” category. And at around 23 kg much lighter than the Como and other similarly equipped bikes.

Hi, I've found a reseller for this one ; thanks ! I will try it soon.