Recommended bike for tall person in urban area - Cycling Mob: Road Cycling, Mountain Biking and More

11-14-2004, 06:25 PM

Hello, I'm not too knowledgable on what the differences are between
various types (road/mountain/etc.) and makers, so I was wondering if
anyone had a suggestion.

I live in Tokyo and love covering the city on my bike. I currently
have what they call a "mama-chari", which essentially is a cheap
aluminum job from China with fenders and a basket. It does ok, but
with constant road construction and bumpy sidewalks, it wears me out
after a while (though I don't feel like my leg muscles are really
getting a good workout).

Anyway, I was looking for a bike that would be well suited for a long
day (8+ hrs) out through the city, over sidewalks, main streets, back
alleys, etc. It's may also worth noting that I am rather tall (almost
190cm) but quite slim. I suppose I want to buy one of the largest
bikes I can find? (what would that be?)

I've read that steel frames and "traditional" geometry ones are more
desirable than aluminum, compact frames. I'm not sure how relevant
this is.

I love the feeling of cruising through the city more than almost
anything, so I'm willing to pay for at least a mid-level bike.

If anyone has a suggestion for a type/maker, or what particular
points/elements I should look for/compare to, I'd be much obliged.
Thank you!!