new hybrid commuter bike for someone who weighs 135kg

I think the flat bar versions are slightly cheaper in general, but the 540 has slightly better spec elsewhere on the bike compared to the 520, specifically having tiagra components. The frame is the same though so I thought you might like to compare riding position. I know quite a few people with Btwin road bikes the old triban 500 (which this is an updated version of) and 300 will last for ever and are really exceptional value.

Im not the best person to ask about the 32 vs 36 spoke wheels, I assume the 36 will take more of a battering though 32 is also very solid.

36 spokes in theory = stronger

Btwin is sound advice. Just get someone to proper tension the wheels, put bigger tires and enjoy. The flatbar you posted is more expensive because it have better groupset, I'd get drop bars anyways

Hi all, I ordered the BTWIN along with loads of accessories etc all expected to be delivered tomorrow.

Quick question - how will the bike arrive, what type of assembly if any will it need?

In a big box. You'll probably need to pop the front wheel in, rotate the handlebars and add pedals. Allen bolts only, usually, but if you aren't comfortable with that kind of thing take it to your local bike shop.

Here it is, I went for a short ride yesterday on quite roads, I need to get used to the drop handle bars as I started a bit wobbly. Wish me luck!

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Nice one!

Brilliant. Nothing* beats new bike joy - hope you have many enjoyable hours/miles on it.

*Not strictly true, but...

Couple more words, sorry if obvious stuff..
Most people will ride mainly on the hoods, in fact its no big deal if you use them rarely imo. Headwinds and posing for photos..
Get access to a pump with guage, every week or two at a push.
Woooo!

Good stuff, you should enjoy that.

As others have said don't worry about the drops too much yet. Usual riding position will be with your hands on the brake hoods, which should be comfortable and easy on the wrists (more so than a flat bar in my experience). Also you can then keep your fingers ready on the brake levers - useful in urban riding.

The 'drops' can be used to get down into a headwind or just for a stretch / change of position. Similarly the 'hooks', or the end section of the bars, although bear in mind you won't then have access to the brake levers without changing hand position.

Lastly the tops (central bit of the bars) can be used if you need to sit up a bit. This is the advantage of drop bars - you have options once you get accustomed to changing hand position while moving (best to practice somewhere quiet).

Looks a beauty, hope you find it rides well. In my experience road bars are way more comfortable than straight bars, and i don't know if its just what I'm used to but also more stable for everything but trails and mtb.

thanks guys, locks etc all arrived today (a kryptonite chain and d lock) so I can begin using it starting tomorrow :)

once again appreciate everyone's input since i started the thread.

Great

First cycle complete! Took just over 50 mins to travel 10 miles i was travelling at a somewhat modest pace.

I think I have my seat a little too low, I believe this along with my naturally outward pointing feet is causing my heel to touch the chain a little when turning right. I'll try putting the seat up tonight and see if that fixes it.

Unfortunately the key for the Kryptonite D lock I bought has bent in the lock on the second use :( not sure if I was too rough with it or what) but I'll contact Evans (where I bought it) and see if they can help :(

There is a huge amount of advice on bike fit online, have a look. The seat position is pretty important, it reduces the stress on your knees to almost nothing when you get it right. It may feel odd at first but its worth getting it right, the position is a lot higher than on a sit up bike because the body position is different.

10 miles in 50 minutes isn't too bad for commuting. I used to do a 15 mile commute in just under and hour on a route with few lights or stopping junctions. You'll soon pick up speed.

Obligatory "have you considered cycle training?" comment.

It sounds like you're going to get patronised for a few hours but really learning some roadcraft from an instructor is usually a pretty good idea and a lot of people take away something useful. If you haven't done it then I strongly recommend looking into it in your area. Having invested in a decent bike, it could help avoid those experiences that put people off cycling.

Also, shoe covers and see if you can't make it to forum beers at some point.

I will deff look into cycle training, never be scared to learn and all that. If it can help keep me safe and not get put off cycling I guess its deff worth looking into.

Will deff stay on the forum and keep upto date with drinks etc. I think I am risking the thread becoming a blog right now though, which might annoy everyone :| lol