Cycling UK Forum

One more question, Jac - do you have flat handlebars or drops?

Bought the bike with the Thorn 'comfort bars' (slightly bent straightish bars) but after a few months changed them.
Had been used to drops and the 'comfort bars' did not allow for any change of position which I found very uncomfortable for anything over about five miles. Changed them for German ergo bars - these are a sort of version of butterfly bars but are stiffer and they take apart and made it possible to fit the gear changer.
There is a picture in the 'tea shop' under 'pictures of your bike' - or I can send you more details if you would like.

Thanks Jac - they do look interesting. I think my ideal bars just don't exist - I love the idea of yours but what to do when cycling into a head wind? i don't use the drops part much but when I do I really need to....

If I'm going to replace my Galaxy with a one-and-only perfect bike then I have to get my head around whether to go for drops or not or whether there is some other option.

How does the Sport Tour version compare speedwise do you think with your Galaxy?

Hi Melanie,
I think on balance the galaxy is faster but this is probably because of the thinner tyres on the 700 wheels.

I missed the drops at first and could not get used to the straightish bars. The ergo bars do allow you to lean into the wind but probably not quite as effectively as drops. There is almost always a gale blowing across the fens so it was a big consideration for me as well. I have now got used to the ergo bars and like them. They allow a more relaxed style of riding in traffic with the brakes easy to reach.

Like you I treated myself to a birthday present - my ideal bike exactly the right size.
I thought about it for about a year and so far I have not regreted the great expense.
The frame is perfect, the 26ins wheels suit the roads I most usually ride (potholes and broken) and I love the Rohloff hub.
Hope this helps

That is a real help, Jac. I have decided to bite the bullet and sell (sob sob) my galaxy eventually to help fund my dream bike. I'm also looking at Chas Roberts for a made to measure frame but then can't afford Rohloff! So I guess it's a trip to Thorn to see how well I'll fit one of their frames (I'm long legged but short in the body so getting the right reach is hard). If I don't fit spot on then I'll go down the made to measure route and I gather Chas Roberts specialise in women's bikes... but that will be at the expense of the Rohloff....I may even look at Mercian but I think they are even more expensive.

Exciting though! Can't wait for my birthday now!

Hi Melw - have sent a PM - might be of interest

Hello,
I have three Thorn bikes! I did have five. One Sold was a Thorn Raven Tour with Rohloff. It was not for me. I also Sold a Thorn Nomad to fund the Rohloff bike. I regret the sale of the Nomad. I do not miss the Rohloff. I would not buy another brand again as far as I can tell from a number of Years with Thorn.
Just my own opinion of course, the same as the rest on here.
John.