New commuter bike: is the Claude Butler Explorer a good option?

[PinkCloudDweller]

My commute is about 3 miles each way on reasonably good roads, although there is one bad stretch with quite a few potholes. I've been to a good local bike shop and the Claude Butler Explorer looks fab, is light and seems pretty good. I don't know anybody who owns one and haven't been able to find much feedback online, so I thought I would ask for some here.

If this is not the best bike, which one would you recommend? Thanks.

[YvaineStormhold]

I got a Gazelle City Paris yesterday and I absolutely love it.

[TrixieBernadette]

The Gazelles I've tried have been lovely to ride, I'd love one if commuting was an option for me (roll on kids in secondary not needing lifts daily!)

[PinkCloudDweller]

Aren't the Gazelles a bit heavy, though?

[YvaineStormhold]

Some are, with really massive frames, but the one I've got isn't. It's an absolute pleasure to ride.

[TrixieBernadette]

The newer styles out this year are lighter, they were traditionally heavier, especially the electric bikes, but the newer frames aren't that heavy. They feel solid and safe, and I like the position for a commuting ride. (I also love some of the colours and patterns I admit, I have a hybrid currently but if I had the space and money i would add a gazelle)

[PinkCloudDweller]

They are certainly beautiful... they remind me of my two trips to the Netherlands. What a civilised country - everybody on their bikes, with their shopping, kids, whatever (and my goodness, aren't Dutch men gorgeous...).

So. What was I talking about? Ah, yes - the Gazelle. A strong possibility.

[YvaineStormhold]

I love the high riding position.

I went out for a ride this morning and I could see over the hedgerows! It makes me feel safer, being a bit high up.

And the seat is really comfortable too, which makes it all the more pleasant

[YvaineStormhold]

Ha! It was a trip to the Netherlands that led to my Gazelle purchase! well, dp's

It was an expensive trip, that. So far it's cost us a Gazelle, a Krups nespresso machine and a ton of stroopwaffels

[YvaineStormhold]

my lovely Giselle the Gazelle

[TrixieBernadette]

I can't link very well, but these are the pretty ones I like

www.gazellebikes.co.uk/bikes/classic/

The orange range is meant to be good as well.