What's built like a tank and rides like a bike?

A WorkCycles Fr8, that's what!

I just got my Fr8 yesterday, and, owing to the dearth of online user reviews about this machine, I figured I'd keep the world updated on my experience.

First, a picture:

So, the picture is not exactly glamorous, but it gets the idea across. OK, actually it doesn't. I had seen many photos of this bicycle online, but it didn't prepare for seeing it in person.

When time came for me to double the number of wheels in my commute, I thought, "I've been riding this useless (but fun!) unicycle for a while -- how about something really different now?" So I spent months deliberating and finally ordered this bike from CleverCycles in Portland, OR. While I have only dealt with the CleverCycles folks once, long distance, everything about my experience with them was positive -- good customer service, prompt shipping, etc. Highly recommended.

When I pulled in the garage yesterday and saw this thing wrapped up on a pallet, I thought, Gracious, that thing is huge! And it is! But I didn't necessarily want a huge bike, just function, especially:

Something to last forever
Suitable car semi-replacement
Cargo capacity
Fuss-free
Good commuter

You get the idea. We'll see how it does long-term. But here are my first impressions. I've only been on one ride, to take the bicycle's cardboard packaging to the recycle bin. Also, as seen in the photo, it came equipped with the Massive Front Rack and Heavy Duty Rear Rack. So, here goes:

General:

AWESOME so far!

Cons first (hurts the worst):

This thing really is heavy! I knew it would be, but -- 70 pounds? Wow. I think that's what it is, anyway; I couldn't lift it entirely off the ground for a precise measurement, but it shot past 60. I don't think this is really a con, but it deserves mention. All I can think is I won't be throwing this in my bike rack on top of the car any time soon!

I'm a tad worried about the plastic chaincase. While it appears rather durable, I can't help but think the rest of the bicycle will outlast it. It rattles a fair bit going over modest bumps at moderate speeds, which is also disconcerting, although I don't know if it should be worrisome.

Massive rack: I'll post more about this rack later. But when kicking off the rack into the "go" position, I have to help the rack stand snap all the way up. It seems like the two beefy springs should accomplish that job for me. Maybe some lubrication would help?

Tires: as far as I can tell, 60 mm tires are necessary, and smooth road tires preferable, which really limits the selection! Maybe not really a con, but not really convenient either.

Handlebars: I like the swept-back handlebars, but the angle it requires of my hands is a bit awkward. I let the handle go through the palm of my hand at a diagonal, which is fine, but perhaps not perfect for my taste.

The LOOK! Totally nerdy! Not for the faint of heart! I did get some stares on my maiden voyage!

Pros:

Built like a tank! Rides like a Cadillac! Totally smooth ride. I think if I deflate the tires a tad, that will help smooth it out even more.

Handling is very good. The two roller brakes work well. Steering is effortless.

Maybe a Shimano thing, but the Nexus 8-speed offers a perfect range of gearing and good shifting.

Geometry: I need to adjust the saddle a bit, but the upright posture is quite comfortable. While I feel like the bike was made for my 5'7" height, my 5'2" wife could probably say the same -- she fit quite well.

The LOOK! Totally nerdy! Not for the faint of heart! I love it!

I'll post more as I get used to this bike. I'm sure I'll find more to love about it. But this is my first gut reaction.