Vitus Vee 29 single-speed: current model guide

Vitus Vee 29 City Bike SS: the current position

Vitus lists the current Vee 29 with a 6061 aluminium frame, 700c wheels, one gear and V-brakes. The large wheels and uncluttered transmission favour straightforward rides on relatively flat roads.

A single-speed removes shifters and derailleurs, but it does not remove maintenance: chain tension, sprocket wear, brake condition and wheel security still need regular checks.

• 6061 aluminium frame
• 700c wheels
• Single-speed drivetrain
• V-brakes
• Listed large-size weight of 11.9kg

What has changed

The old Vee 1 was described with a mountain-bike-influenced frame, steel fork and disc brakes. The current Vee 29's V-brakes are simpler but perform differently in wet, gritty conditions.

Both reward a flat or gently rolling route. Before choosing one gear, ride the steepest regular hill and consider the effect of luggage and headwinds.

The Vitus Vee 1 page described a mountain-bike-influenced commuter with wide flat bars, slick tyres and a simple single-speed drivetrain. RideIn thought the ratio balanced modest hills with useful speed on the flat.

V-brakes, an aluminium frame and a steel fork kept the specification straightforward. The stable position and matt-black finish were important parts of the recommendation.

• Earlier RideIn model: Aluminium frame
• Earlier RideIn model: Steel fork
• Earlier RideIn model: Single-speed drivetrain
• Earlier RideIn model: V-brakes
• Earlier RideIn model: Listed weight: 10.8kg

How it rides and who it suits

This format can be quiet, responsive and inexpensive to maintain for city riding. It is a poor match for very hilly journeys unless the rider accepts walking or a deliberately low gear.

Check that both road-legal brakes are present and working. A fashionable fixed-gear conversion should not be assumed to be safe or suitable for the intended commute.

Checks before buying

Manufacturers can change components during a model's sales life, and stock can span more than one model year. Check the exact bicycle being offered rather than relying on the family name alone.

• Confirm the exact model year and specification on the retailer page
• Choose by reach and riding position, not only the nominal frame size
• Check tyre clearance plus rack, mudguard and bottle-mount compatibility
• Allow for pedals, lights, a lock and any workshop setup in the complete cost

Ownership, setup and safety

A new bicycle still needs correct assembly and a safety check. Confirm wheel security, bar and stem alignment, brake operation, gear adjustment and tyre pressure before the first road ride. Use the component maker's torque values rather than guessing.

Keep the drivetrain clean, inspect the tyres and brake pads, and deal with play or unusual noise early. A qualified mechanic should assess suspected structural damage, persistent brake problems or work that requires specialist tools.