Recommendations Needed for a Good Donor Bike

[redalpha3]

Hi All

I've decided to use my Heinzmann kit from my Dahon folder on a new donor bike more suitable for general use. The Heinzmann equipment is first class but I think I chose the wrong sort of bike initially and now need to look at a good alternative.

I've found that my Ezee Sprint is a good set up as the step- thru frame suits my dubious back and any donor bike of a similar nature would be useful. It also allows me to have a large basket on the rear pannier without "splitting my differentials" every time I set off/dismount! I would like a hub gear setup and 26"/700 ish wheels. I use the bike on mixed road/cycle track/bridle path surfaces. I live in a hilly area but I'm convinced that the Heinzmann is capable of good service with this wheel size.

I've been advised to look at Ideal Bikes Step thru range by my local cycle shop but would value any contributions from people who have contemplated/completed such a build in the past. Perhaps there are some aspects that I need to consider that I've omitted?

All observations gratefully received.

Thanks

 

[flecc]

Here's an avenue to explore Pete, Dutch bikes available via Cambridge:

The Dutch Bike company.

 

[flecc]

And another. If you'd like something modern looking but still step through there's this model from Riese and Muller.

Also a Kinetics hint, they used to do the German Miele bikes which they fitted with the Heinzmanns so that would be ideal. They may still be agents for them despite not listing them online. I feel certain that was a step through.

Giant do the Suxes model in a "ladies" frame version. It's a strong low maintenence bike with chaincase etc. A to B didn't like it primarily because they think anyone wanting a step through roadster should look around for one of the huge number of old bikes around in garages etc, an odd reason for not recommending something. They also remarked that they had an old roadster around that they'd been trying to shift on for years, so they might be worth a call for a free bike if they've still got it!
.

 

[redalpha3]

I'm quite interested in the Dutch roadster style though they have always seemed heavy and realistically seem perfect for flat Holland. I considered some from Cycle Heaven in York. Gazelles, I think. The weight was a disadvantage and I certainly would have been concerned about hills here, even with assistance! Certainly worth further consideration.

 

[redalpha3]

And another. If you'd like something modern looking but still step through there's this model from Riese and Muller.

Also a Kinetics hint, they used to do the German Miele bikes which they fitted with the Heinzmanns so that would be ideal. They may still be agents for them despite not listing them online. I feel certain that was a step through.

Giant do the Suxes model in a "ladies" frame version. It's a strong low maintenence bike with chaincase etc. A to B didn't like it primarily because they think anyone wanting a step through roadster should look around for one of the huge number of old bikes around in garages etc, an odd reason for not recommending something. They also remarked that they had an old roadster around that they'd been trying to shift on for years, so they might be worth a call for a free bike if they've still got it!
.

My original Heinzmann kit came from Ben at Kinetics. It should be worth asking his advice. He must have had some strange requests over the years.

I'm really keen to get it right this time. Think I'm looking for high end components.

 

[flecc]

That Miele bike is definitely high end Pete, everything biased to maximum quality, and it's proven Heinzmann usage makes it certainly a very likely candidate if Ben still handles them.

I've recalled the model name as well, it was the Miele Tivoli.
.

 

[redalpha3]

Thanks Flecc. I will check the Tivoli out. Can't find much on t'internet. Early days yet though