Hi,

I'm looking to get back into cycling after about a ten year break. I used to cycle everywhere but travel, injury and moving to the suburbs basically stopped me.

The main rides I'll be doing:

• 36km (22mi) between my place and my girlfriends - little bit of road, mostly bike path, a little bit of gravel.

• 8km (5mi) to JiuJitsu class - road/pavement/path.

With at least one loaded pannier, possibly two.

I'm 110kg (~242lb) with a fairly solid build, the steel frames are appealing.

I may do a little touring, I haven't done it before but Australia has some great off road tour options. It might just be a nice idea that I never get around to. I like camping and being alone which is what appeals about touring.

Being in Australia, I'm pretty limited on what bikes are actually available.

I was recommended the Kona Sutra LTD ($4k) (by a sales guy) but I feel that the wide tires aren't a great choice for the commuting and it's a bit more than I was planning to spend. I don't mind spending more on getting the right bike for me but I'm also pretty frugal so would prefer to spend less if I can find the right bike for less.

I've also been considering the Marin Nicasio plus ($1.3K), Nicasio 2 ($2.2k), Surly Preamble ($2.9k), Salsa Cutthroat ($4.9k) or maybe a Bombtrack Hook ($3.6k).

Plus about $1000 for fenders, racks and a big fat lock to lock it up.

Thanks for any input.