Torker Graduate Commuter Bike Review

In the quest to create the most maintenance-free commuter bike on the market, Torker has taken it upon themselves to try to broaden our horizons a bit with their brand new Graduate, available for 2010 for about $500. On quick glance, the bike appears to be a simple, no frills urban commuter—something that won’t stand out when locked to a parking meter. No derailleurs, no suspension, no visible brakes? Even the standard paint is gray with minimalist decals and black components. The overall look is basically what comes to mind when someone says “urban commuter.” It’s an upright bike whose clean lines and sloping geometry looks fast and spry enough to avoid the surprise pothole, yet tough enough to withstand one. Actually riding the bike lives up to the first impression where the balance between speed and sturdiness succeeds without compromising too much of either.

On closer inspection, there are some exciting things going on. Torker has hooked up the bike with beautiful alloy high-flange Sturmey Archer 5-speed internally geared hubs with drum brakes actuated by Avid Speed Dial levers. The All Rounder bars are a bit wide for my tastes, but do help put your body in a comfortable riding position that is still a bit aggressive. The standard fenders are a great addition that may help steer some undecided buyers into the saddle knowing that they won’t have to add them later. Also, the stock tires are a sturdy 32mm Tioga Gritty Slicker that give you the option to take this directly from the road to some light trails. Stripped down to the basics, the bike looks and rides what you’d expect and want from a versatile urban commuter. When compared to the current crop of single speed and fixed gear commuters, its 29.5 lbs is on the heavy side, but not so bad that it would turn a few flights of stairs into a chore. Compared to other multispeed bikes with fenders and city tires at the same price point, the Graduate is only marginally heavier, primarily due to the drum brakes.
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