Hello! I have a decent every day / errand / beer run bike (a 1989 26" MTB).
I'd like to get something nicer to ride around with my 2 year old kid in the back.
At first this will be mainly for shorter rides to get her used to it but can definitely see using this for longer mixed use rides of 40 or so miles in a day. I live in a hilly part of Los Angeles with access to bike lanes, river paths, some hills and gravelly areas. I prefer to spend as little time on busy roads as I can.
I'd like something with good braking – ideally disc, no firm preference on hydraulic vs mechanical. I'll be riding with a kid in the back for a couple years. I don't want a step through. Like the post said I'm looking to spend around $1500. The bike will unfortunately have to be stored outside tho I might be able to swing a small shed.
I'm not interested in drop bars, friction shifters, or going especially fast.
I'd say I'm a novice rider. I'm 6'2" and right now around 250 lbs. I can do basic maintenance and am a quick learner when it comes to repairs (former volunteer at my local co-op). Definitely up for second hand.
Right now my top choice is a Surly Bridge Club but I wanted to open the floor to feedback on that and suggestions for others. Thanks in advance!
by GothAlgar