Cycling in Waterloo Region

[danbrotherston]

Question, I'm looking to get a new bike for getting to/from work, around town, maybe occasionally on trails that are gravel. Looking for recommendations. Under $1,500, tire and chain fenders/guards against rain/snow, integrated kickstand, integrated or accommodation for a good rear rack, ideally disc brakes, minimum 3 ideally more speeds (happy with internal hubs). Open to the possibility that I should get a particular bike for paved-only commuting, and something separate for any chance of winding up on gravel trails. I've been beating an old 21-speed to death, chipped/worn teeth on all gears, and having bought it as a used bike 10 years ago, I think it might be nice to invest in something that I can maintain myself and enjoy for a lot longer than this one's inherited deficiencies.

Head down to Black Arrow Cycles, they have a huge selection of commuting bikes. Some are more classically styled and some are more modern with disc brakes. I ride a bike with 38mm tires on gravel roads, trails and it does awesome on paved roads with the same tires, I use a higher end supple tire but most hybrids and city bikes come with tires that decent for mixed surface riding. They'll take the time to work with you on the fit and make sure you get what you want.

You took the words right out of my mouth.

I will add, I'm not sure which trails you're looking at, but most gravel trails around town are crushed stone dust and will do just fine on any bike, even a road bike.  I run a hybrid with 28c slick tires and have never had an issue using our gravel trails or gravel roads.  Maybe I could go faster with a more gravel bike, but I go fast enough as it is.