Giant Halfway – Bike for life (and commuting)

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Living in Brighton, my work takes me to London around 3-4 months a year. As a freelancer im always looking for freedom in travel and getting from A to B in the most efficient way without compromising the environment.
So when southern railways introduced their ban on bicycles across their network last year I, probably as well as others started looking for alternatives to this. The only way to take bikes on the train is to have folding versions. Expensive, it took a bit of time to get used to paying up to £500 for a bike.

Chris Pestridge’s article on the Giant bike is number one Google search results.
This gave me good insight into the reliable usually mountain bike and hybrid manufacturer. I liked the look of the bike, a nice finish and great welding.. a bike that looks like it will last.

I went down to Baker street bikes in Brighton, and had a ride on the Giant Halfway. “Isnt it speedy!”, were my first impressions. The 20″ wheels certainly means you can keep up with the bigger bikes and pull away at the traffic lights confidently.

I cycled up hills and round some leafy cycles lanes (being autumn) – I was warned about the factory supplied tyres being quite hard. I had to find trust in the tyres gripping to the corners and tested how far I could push the bike with road handling and stopping – using the shimano brakes.

The man at the shop explained it was just another style of riding you have to get used to. The brakes might not be as efficient as disk brakes, but how could they?

So I have owned the bike for 2 weeks now, used it in and around Brighton. Also for one weeks commuting up to Baker Street from London Victoria. A nice cycle through Hyde Park and along Oxford Street.

From this experience I have got used to the riding position of the bike, the handling and folding the bike up.

From this my conclusions are all positive. Im actually thinking about fitting panniers on the back rack and possibly taking it touring.

Advantages :

• The bikes advantage over Bromptom bikes means it can cover longer distances without the cyclist feeling stretched or overtired.
• Its a very easy cycle on the Giant, and a good upright cycling position
• with total flexibility in the position of the seat post and handlebars
• The 7 speed gears mean you can attack hills aswell as having a good flat ground cruising gear.

Disadvantages :

• are the short frame and the pedals could be a bit more robust
• I have to make my mind up about upgrading the tyres, but I will only know what the “old” ride was like until I pay £30 for a new pair of continentals.

Hopefully all being well, and if it doesnt get stolen I look forward to a long relationship with it. And with tube prices still rising the £425 I paid for it will pay for itself in around 70 days of commuting. And It can be claimed for as a company vehicle.