Thanks for all the suggestions guys – there are actually quite a few out there after all. Only problem is finding them in stock and in my (tiny) size!
Mush – would love to buy secondhand (you may have noticed a couple of ads in classifieds), but because I need such a small size I’m not that likely to find one – otherwise I definitely would. To be fair though, it was our garage that was broken into and all our bikes nicked so the theft thing isn’t as much as an issue as money…
So, shortlist time!
New Langster – apparently does have brakes, so great fun little bike but a bit pricey for the quality of build but it is a known quantity. (If anyone can find an old model cheap (49cm), please let me know!)
Trek 2nd district – bit more practical and hopefully not too much
heavier???
Felt Dispatch – looks v similar to Langster, but can’t find one anywhere in my size 🙁
SE Lager – It’s supposed to be light even though steel (I’m not totally convined, not sure about geometry either), but it is only £375 in black in my size!
Have pretty much discounted:
Pearson Touche – looks really nice but a bit too serious and expensive for me (I only want a dash about bike, not a 20 mile commute everyday bike)
Trek Triton – price and it’s still steel (though does look nice)
Wilier Pista – price (but looks lovely!)
Pompino – doesn’t really do it for me, but is obviously good value
Boardman – too big even in small
Genesis – all too big even in small (I think)
Kona Paddy Wagon – looks pretty heavy, but am a little tempted by reduced prices around…
Think that’s it!
Cast your votes?!