Originally Posted By: JOD
Yeah, Raleigh moved just north a bit (still in Kent). They actually used to manufacture product there, one of the last US mfgs of mid-range bikes. It's a long, sad story but I'll spare you the details. Bottom line is it's tough to compete with Chinese goods.
There's a bit difference in Tiagra 10 speed stuff--it's actually good. My wife has about 7,000 miles on it on her rain/commuter bike, and it's held up really well (she has the
Clubman ).. It's world's better than the older Tiagra stuff.
One thing to note is that when you try out different bikes, they may "feel" different. While frame design/material plays a part, particularly with the fork, about 90% of what you're "feeling" is the tires. They're basically your car's tires and entire suspension components all rolled into one. Good tires can make an overly stiff bike feel good, and vice verse. And it's easy to change tires.
A few years ago, the bikes in this segment were lame; they were basically re-tooled road bikes. Now they have slacker geometry, taller head tubes, and the frames generally have smaller diameter tubes so even the aluminum bikes aren't overly harsh. So, like I said earlier I don't think you can get a bad bike in that range. I'd probably check out a couple of different shops and just go with the place from which you get the best vibe and the best deal.
Good to know about the Tiagra. Last time I used that line was about ten years ago. I was not impressed. I hope the newer components are a bit more refined and durable.
I hear you about the tires. It's typically one of the first upgrades I give a bike after purchasing.
I've emailed Cycle Therapy on the price of that Raleigh you linked. It will make a good starting point. I have a few other brands to look at and test ride as well. I'll try REI, Center Cycle, Performance Bike Shop, Angle Lake Cyclery, and even Greggs Greenlake. Maybe by the time I make a purchase they will have those sandbags removed from the Green River Trail!