I started out riding a hybrid trek bicycle in late-august to get me started on commuting on a bicycle to school/work. I live one mile from a DART light rail so I can ride when it rains, but on other days I ride 10 miles one way. I would say my current bike is falling apart and has done it's duty as a beginner bicycle but I think I need something new/faster.
I was thinking of buying a schwinn road bike for my commute, if that is what I need. I am not really sure. I found a safe route with little traffic and am not forced to ride on the sidewalk/grass. I carry about 25-50 pounds on my book (which I can carry on a rear rack).
Now that I have laid down some information, let me get to the question. I know I am physically fit to try out commuting on a road bike, but will I need a road bike? Sure I want to make my commutes faster but are road bikes appropriate for daily 20 mile commutes? Also, are road bikes suited to carry loads like my school books and work clothes? Last but not least, should I just stick with a hybrid bike but just another one?
Thanks everyone, I hope to hear some great answers from y'all. I'm not sure if it matters but I live in Dallas Texas.
I forgot to add what bike I am interested in purchasing. I want to get one from my local neighborhood bike shop. It is a Scwinn Prelude road bike. I don't really know much about it or what to look for but here is the link.
http://www.schwinnbikes.com/bikes/road/prelude-10318
I was thinking of buying a schwinn road bike for my commute, if that is what I need. I am not really sure. I found a safe route with little traffic and am not forced to ride on the sidewalk/grass. I carry about 25-50 pounds on my book (which I can carry on a rear rack).
Now that I have laid down some information, let me get to the question. I know I am physically fit to try out commuting on a road bike, but will I need a road bike? Sure I want to make my commutes faster but are road bikes appropriate for daily 20 mile commutes? Also, are road bikes suited to carry loads like my school books and work clothes? Last but not least, should I just stick with a hybrid bike but just another one?
Thanks everyone, I hope to hear some great answers from y'all. I'm not sure if it matters but I live in Dallas Texas.
I forgot to add what bike I am interested in purchasing. I want to get one from my local neighborhood bike shop. It is a Scwinn Prelude road bike. I don't really know much about it or what to look for but here is the link.
http://www.schwinnbikes.com/bikes/road/prelude-10318