Trek Clyde

Price Paid:  $300.00 at Herwig's in NOLA

Model Year:
2004

Favorite Ride:
Schwynn "Heavy Duti" 26" Cruiser`

Bike Setup:
Trek Clyde w/ DK BMS Sealed Bearing Pedals and Specialized Armadillo Tires.

Summary:
I was seriously lusting after the Trek "Clyde" after stumbling upon a picture of it on the internet: cool classic cruiser style with some nice updates. The aluminum frame was killer considering most cruisers are crazy heavy, and the Shumano Nexus 7-speed internal hub was crucial. I had always loved cruisers for thier simplicity -- no derailleurs to gum up or clickity-clack on the up-hills, just the basics of feet, chain and cogs (a track bike w/ a coaster brake and a beer gut).
I got the bike and slapped on some BMX pedals and a laid-back seat post and started riding to work -- about 8 miles with super steep downhills there and the mountains of DC for the ride home! It was a comfortable ride; the geometry; the bars are super exadurated and the springer fork and padded/spring loaded seat are lazyboy esque. The hills home were rough with the Clyde. I've ridden several different brands of 26" cruisers on the ride plenty of times before, even my BMX bike could climb these hills with much more ease than this Trek. Obviously this bike is built for style and comfort, but I was expecting a little more hump outta the aluminum frame and internal hub, but didn't find it. Overall the Clyde is a very well made bike with some killer aspects. Not as light as I thought, but pretty good weight for a cruiser. Maybe not a great bike for me (II tend to like the old doggs from the 50's/60's) but will suit you well if you can shell out the cash for it.

Strengths:
* Shimano Nexus 7-Speed Internal Hub
* Springer Fork
*Aluminum Frame
* Springy Seat
* Great Grips

Weaknesses:
* Cost ($459)
* Pedals
* Flimsy Fenders (built to save weight, buut dent easily)
*Sluggish Uphill Climbs

Similar Products Used:
Schwynn Cruisers
Murray Cruisers
BMX 24" Cruisers