Novara Transfer Bike

Attention cyclists who pedal geared bikes through rain, snow, cold and the dreaded mix of all three: Although you may not arrive at your destination dry, maybe your gearing should. That frozen muck can adversely affect your shifting and even render your rig un-rideable (frozen cassette pawls, anyone?).

For those in the market for an inexpensive rig that’s built for all seasons, Novara’s redesigned 2010 Transfer is an economical option. With the paltry price tag of $649, the commuter bike features an internally-geared, Shimano Nexus 7-speed hub and a 2.4-watt Basta headlight that’s powered by a dynamo hub. (You pedal to power the light.) And to help others see you at night, the bike includes a battery-powered taillight and reflective sidewalls on the fat 40c Vittoria Randonneur tires.

Rounding out the parts package is a bell, fenders and a rear rack.

The frame is built from chromoly, the drive train is mostly Shimano parts, and the brakes are by Tektro. Just a straightforward group rounding out what may very well be the Honda Civic of bikes — a no-frills, dependable rig that will serve owners a long time. www.rei.com

—Stephen Krcmar