Lugged Roadini – 2025 – Rivendell Bicycle Works 54 cm. It's rather similar to an old English 531 bike I spent thousands of miles of laden riding on, with weight concentrated aft, because I didn't have great options for loading up the front. Unfortunately that bike is long gone!
Lugged Roadini Geometry chart here: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1403/7343/files/RBW_Bicycle_Geometries_August_2025.pdf?v=1755816394
Relevant measurements for 54 cm: Head angle 72, rake 50 (from an old design sketch or measured (badly) at 45, chainstay 450, wheelbase 1054 cm (measured). I calculate trail at 61 mm for the old design rake and at 66 for 45 mm, which would be long trail. It rides like a neutral standard 1970s road bike, so I'm assuming 61 mm trail is correct.
For everyday riding I have a nice Swift Paloma handlebar bag (6L) and a Swift Catalyst saddle bag (7.5 L) for everyday use. I figure that's a good combo for everyday use, with supplies, picnic, lock. COMMENTS?
The issue is when I am carrying more stuff (shopping, or cold weather, or overnight, or because I am in the mood, and eventually for overnighting/GAP-C&O etc). RECOMMENDATIONS?
I'm pondering whether to go for front loading (front rack, front low rider etc) or rear loading (large camping saddlebag, maybe light rack and bags)
I'd consider baskets etc. I even have a BOB trailer I could.
Considering the geometry of this bike and use on pavement or light gravel (e.g., C&O towpath), what would you do and why?
by toaster404
3 Comments
Did you already buy the frame? I have a Roadini and it’s a fun bike but not the best choice for an everyday city task bike with fenders, bags and baskets and so on. I think I would pick the Sam Hillison or Atlantis frames as my do everything bikes if I wanted a Rivendell frame.
I think Rivs are designed for more of a rear load. I have a Roadini and I mainly use a handlebar bag. But it’s strictly out of convenience because it’s easy to get things out and I can move it around to different bikes. Mostly it doesn’t really affect my handling but I use swept back bars. I don’t think I’d do it on drops.
I would email Rivendell and see what they think.