State all road vs REI brand or something less expensive… is State the way to go?
I’m totally new to this so feel free to tell me I’m not on the right track. I’m looking for an all road/gravel bike so I can do daily tasks like get groceries, go to the library/gym/etc, ride around with my toddler (any suggestions for a toddler seat welcome!), and ride some basic gravel trails. I’m in Colorado in the front range. I’m currently a stay at home parent and for the next couple of months the bike will be our form of transport while toddler’s dad is at work.
My brother is a relatively experienced cyclist and says anything less expensive than the State will need to be replaced within a year. However, he makes a lot more money than I ever have so there may be a warped perspective there! I’m willing/able to buy the State (and I like it!) but just looking for other perspectives on this. Maybe I’m looking for someone to convince me to get the State because it does look cool… but would the REI CTY bike or something similar be just as good for my needs?
TIA for any advice!
REI: https://www.rei.com/product/197842/co-op-cycles-cty-11-bike
State: https://www.statebicycle.com/products/4130-all-road-flat-bar-rust-fade-650b-700c
by makeamesss