Breezer Downtown 8 vs Jamis Commuter 3

[DCLiz]

I’ve been making due with my entry level Trek 7100 hybrid. When I bought it, I didn’t know anything about bikes and frankly had sticker shock at the bike store. Now I know what kind of riding I do (commuting 4 miles each way to work from Capitol Hill to downtown and other short rides around the city), and I think I know some things I am looking for in a bike:

• Step-through frame
• Internal hub
• Chain guard
• Fenders and rear rack
• Water bottle attachment
• Given above heavy elements, as lightweight as possible due to living in an old, walk-up apartment with very narrow, winding stairways.
• Available at a LBS (preferably Capitol Hill!)

I was wondering if folks on the list had opinions on the Breezer Downtown 8 and/or Jamis Commuter 3 or would recommend something else entirely.

Topic

[Starduster]

On the surface, they are comparable, and both quality bikes. The Jamis has the lighter aluminum frame, which is an advantage carrying up stairs. 8-speed Nexus vs 7-speed Nexus? Two different Shimano models- both will be good for the climbing work you will do. Tell us how each one feels!

[Author]

Replies