Buying commuter bike help

[Carlycycle]

Hi there,

I’m looking to buy a commuter/all rounder bike. I have a short commute about a 6km round trip and would like to use a removable child seat when needed on a rear rack. We are a very bike based family and I usually ride lots. I will also have a cargo ebike but need another option on my work days.

Am I better to buy a new bike in my price range ($1000) or a second hand one at this price? I’ve spotted a Kona sutra 2013 model I’m going to look at but wondering at this age if I’m just better to get a flat bar road bike that’s new to meet my needs. Is this touring bike worth it at this age?

Thanks
Carly

[10speedsemiracer]

If anything, there would be few bikes as capable as the Sutra for commuting and touring.

A good steel frame, disc brakes (although probably Avid bb7s..not my favourite) and a 9sp drivetrain. Easily maintained, tough and a nice relaxed geometry.

If the Sutra is in good condition, and not priced ridiculously, I'd buy it (as long as it fits) ..

[AUbicycles]

With a kids seat... for the purpose of commuting, my thoughts are to ignore drop bars and go for a flat bar. Though the Konas are decent bikes.

Second hand for short trips is fine. Advantage of a used bike is the price while a new bike has an advantage that it is usually good to go with no maintenance or replacements or repairs, plus has a warranty.

Removable kids seats should be available and one I had (brand - bobike) clamped to the seat tube and seat stays on the bike so didn't need anything special.

Look out for one that can conveniently be put on and removed and also can be adjusted to fit - straps for your child and also the height of the feet support (i.e. for a growing child, the feet support / straps can be adjusted).

[Carlycycle]

If anything, there would be few bikes as capable as the Sutra for commuting and touring.

A good steel frame, disc brakes (although probably Avid bb7s..not my favourite) and a 9sp drivetrain. Easily maintained, tough and a nice relaxed geometry.

If the Sutra is in good condition, and not priced ridiculously, I'd buy it (as long as it fits) ..

Thanks for your response- I am sad to say the sutra was a touch too big! It does look and feel like an incredible bike and it was in really good condition. Anyway not much I can do about that. I’m looking at a jamis coda instead, with disc brakes. Should do what I need around town.

[10speedsemiracer]

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Thanks for your response- I am sad to say the sutra was a touch too big! It does look and feel like an incredible bike and it was in really good condition. Anyway not much I can do about that. I’m looking at a jamis coda instead, with disc brakes. Should do what I need around town.

Shame about the Kona, they're lovely bikes.

The Jamis Coda is A Good Thing, nice steel (Reynolds) good spec on the upper end models, and a nice comfy frame geometry. Have worked on a few of these over the years, like 'em a lot.

The further up the food chain you can go (S1 or S2 models preferably) the better..in the long term.

Good luck on the search.