Australian Cycling Forums - Bicycles Network Australia

Hi everyone,

I'm considering buying this bike https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/it ... 017648197/ I'm mostly planning to use it as a commuter, and regular rides in the neighbourhood.

I've been trying to find information about Europa bikes online, especially more recent bikes and their reliability, but there isn't much available.

From my understanding, it is an old brand, and they sell retro models like this one that look like their old models from the 70's and 80's. I like the looks, but couldn't find feedback about the quality of these bikes and if it would make for a good companion. Any opinion, feedback or information is super welcome. I'm meeting the seller on Tuesday.

Thank you!

Sebajun wrote: ↑

Sun Feb 27, 2022 12:37 pm

Hi everyone,

I'm considering buying this bike https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/it ... 017648197/ I'm mostly planning to use it as a commuter, and regular rides in the neighbourhood.
...

'
The main thing is to ensure that the size is appropriate for you. If that is not right, nothing else about the bike will make it a good deal.'

I would not advise downtube shifters on any bike intended to be ridden in traffic. You change gears *a lot* in this use case (typically every few seconds), and if you have to hit the brakes while you have a hand off the bars to change gears it will not end well.

trailgumby wrote: ↑

Sun Feb 27, 2022 9:24 pm

I would not advise downtube shifters on any bike intended to be ridden in traffic. You change gears *a lot* in this use case (typically every few seconds), and if you have to hit the brakes while you have a hand off the bars to change gears it will not end well.

I tend to agree that downtime shifters are not as convenient to change, but I found riding them wasn’t that bad. Just meant I ended up learning to ride a wider range of cadence to suit the gear I was in rather than change as often.

I had an old Europa framed bike (with down tube shifters) it wasn’t high end and was a good solid bike for a while until I bought newer model.

Thank you guys, the point about downtube shifters makes a lot of sense. I hadn't thought of that and think I'd feel better with a flat bar. I remember how reactive you have to be in traffic sometimes. I'll look for a commuter then. Thanks again.

Sebajun wrote: ↑

Mon Feb 28, 2022 11:26 am

Thank you guys, the point about downtube shifters makes a lot of sense. I hadn't thought of that and think I'd feel better with a flat bar. I remember how reactive you have to be in traffic sometimes. I'll look for a commuter then. Thanks again.

'
Another option is to use integrated shifters on a drop bar road bike. Downtube shifters started to fade out in the 1990s.