Co-Motioin, IF, Atlantis

[Wallace]

I'm looking foir a bike that will be a commuter and canal-path rambler for now and will be able to handle full, unsupported tours when I have the time and gumption (working on those...). I have been able to find a lot of reviews on the Atlantis and Co-Motion models, but not much on the IF Independence. Any thoughts on where I could find info, or is there anyone out there with advice on any of these rigs? Thanks  

[TheDaltonBoys]

If you put the brand names you have quoted on a dartboard, put on a blindfold and let the throw of a dart be the deciding factor....you would still win. I.F. has a web site and you may get enough information but as the old adage goes "...10,000 natives can't be wrong", for as long as I've been reading of and about bicycles I have never found anyone besmirch IF frames, nevermind the other two models you've mentioned. I wish it was my choice!!! My hearty congratulations and enjoy the voyage....Mark of the Dalton Boys

[RussellSeaton]

You can make this decision based upon the answer to two questions.  1. Do you prefer lugs or welds?  If lugs, then the Atlantis is your choice.  Its built in Japan using lugs for Rivendell.  2. If welds are your choice, then where do you live?  Western half of the US, then go with Co-Motion since its built in Oregon, closer to where you live.  Eastern half of the US, then Independent Fabrications since its built in Massachusettes, closer to where you live.

On second thought maybe question number 1 should be which bike comes in the color you want.  When dealing with equal quality bikes, you might as well get the one that looks best to you.  No point in buying a bike with a color you don't like.

All three of these bikes will hold fenders and racks and baggage and large tires quite well.  These traits are what you would want for commuting in all weather and riding on gravel/rock bike paths and loaded touring.  All are built/sold by reputable companies that I believe stand behind their products if/when something goes amiss.  I don't think you can go too wrong with any of them.

This message was edited by RussellSeaton on 8-6-06 @ 12:45 PM

[Wallace]

Thanks for these replies. Very helpful and informative. Gosh there are some great bikes out there these days. This may take a while...

[mike_khad1]

Not to confuse you any more, but..... I recently purchased a Burley Hudson. I use it for commuting and for loaded touring. I am quite pleased with it. It is also made in Oregon. Burley Hudson

Have fun