Handlebars
Flat bars give you more stability, but drop bars give you better aerodynamics for longer commutes.

Forks
Minimise energy-dissipating suspension and go for carbon or an alloy that dampens road vibration.

Saddle
Make sure your hip bones are supported to keep your undercarriage healthy.

Wheels
Go for 700C wheels because they will roll well and eat up the mileage.

Tyres
'I had a puncture' is an excuse that wears thin quickly, so choose tyres with Kevlar reinforcement.

Drivetrain
The more gears you have the better maintained your bike needs to be, unless they are in a sealed hub.

Rims
Narrow rims make for less rolling resistance, but the better-known brands will tend to have the strength to take on potholes.

Pedals
You may have to buy your own, so bear in mind that some brands have more lateral movement – making them easier on the knees – than others.

To read Joel Natale's reviews of some of the latest crop of commuter bikes, click here.

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