Raleigh USA Bicycle Company 2001 SC40

Price Paid:  $289.00 at Eki Cyclery

Favorite Ride:
Pearl Harbor to Waipahu

Bike Setup:
I put some Michelin Wildgripper City tires on it, a Fizik saddle that I found in the half price bin,

Summary:
I would classify this as more of a Hybrid bike rather than a Cruiser, with the Shimano C201 components and V- Brakes. I bought this bike for a commuter-bike. It's comfortable and the suspension seat post is a nice touch. The front and rear derailers needed tuning after about 2 weeks, and they are still a bit sloppy, but my ride to work is very hilly, so I'm shifting the hell out of this bike. The CI Deck is cool, it tells you what gear you're in. This is also my first Grip-shift bike, I wish I had it on my Mountain Bike. Good value.

Strengths:
Light, durable, comfortable. Low price.

Weaknesses:
I don't like the rise handlebars on this bike. I had to tilt the neck all the way forward and lower the stem all the way down to suit my taste.

Similar Products Used:
None

Price Paid:  $299.00 at Sport Chalet

Favorite Ride:
Long Beach Shoreline Park

Bike Setup:
Stock, with a Cat Eye cyclocomputer, and a rear rack.

Summary:
The bike is very comfortable to ride, especially if you get numbness in your hands and crotch area after riding a while. Shifting is not the best, but liveable to the recreational rider. My plastic gear shield broke for some unknown reason, and Sport Chalet promptly replaced it at no cost. I'd say it's worth the price.

Strengths:
Well built, comfortable ride. Cyclist in a more upright position, and the gel seat is a big plus.

Weaknesses:
Needs a tuneup after a few miles, as the shifting goes out of alignment.

Similar Products Used:
Univega 303, which I returned in exchange for the SC40.

Favorite Ride:
New River Trail, VA

Bike Setup:
Don't know what this means, so no comment

Summary:
It is a great bike for the money. I am trying to talk my wife into letting me buy her one.

Strengths:
Very pleased with this sport comfort design. In the first month I have put almost 800 miles on it. I commute to work five days a week 8.65 miles one way. Also ride at lunch and on weekends. It is a pleasure to ride. So far I like everything about it. Particulary like adjustability of handle bars and shock supension of seat. The handlebars can be adjusted down and further forward, they pivot around a point. This is a great feature. The CI Deck mounted on the bars is the first practical gear indicator I have seen.

Weaknesses:
Have not found any yet

Similar Products Used:
Univega 305 but I didn't ride that as much as this