New commuter-8 miles one way-bike recommendation

#1

Hi, I’m looking for bike recommendations. I’m new to biking, and commute 8 miles one way. The wind in this area is ~15 mph. Most days I have to bike against the wind in the afternoon trip.
I currently have a 21-speed Schwinn bike with front suspension and kinda thick tires but alloy frame similar to this one https://sfbay.craigslist.org/sfc/bik/d/schwinn-city-hybrid-road-bike/6573460122.html
I’m considering the low-budget options below, thinking that it might make my commute less painful and then I can bike regularly:
1- https://www.performancebike.com/shop/fuji-crosstown-23-comfort-bike-2018-31-8577 - on 30% sale for memorial day
2- http://infinitycycleworks.com/product/boss-three-mens-7-speed - Costco
3- www.mybuddysbikeshop.com/us/escape-3
4- https://www.walmart.com/ip/700C-Men-s-GMC-Denali-Road-Bike-White-Red/55533559

Are these worth the upgrade or the performance difference compared to my current bike won’t be that significant? If yes, which option is the best?

Thanks a lot!

(Jay AM) #2

What is causing the pain exactly?

#3

The ~15mph headwind mainly.

(Todd) #4

If I’m riding in wind I’d want something that is going to take that “pain point” away…So if I was in your shoes I’d go with a cyclocross/gravel bike. You’ll get the narrower tire for less rolling resistance, but the tire will be beefier than a typical road tire so you’ll have a more supple ride as well as confidence if you have to roll on varied terrain. And you’ll also have the road bike style handle bars which, in wind, if you get down in the drops makes you much more aero dynamic so the wind is less of a factor.

Also, the saying “you get what you pay for” applies when it comes to bikes. PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE do not, under any circumstances, no matter what happens…buy the GMC Denali road bike from Walmart.

I didn’t have a ton of time to look around but here are 2 examples of Cyclocross/Gravel bikes from Performance Bikes. There are also flat bar road bikes that a little more comfortable to ride.This is just my 2 cents.

https://www.performancebike.com/shop/bikes-frames/road-bikes/cyclocross-bikes/fuji-cross-20-le-cyclocross-bike-2017-performance-exclusive-31-5576

https://www.performancebike.com/shop/bikes-frames/road-bikes/gravel-road-bikes/fuji-jari-25-gravel-bike-2018-31-8613