Platypus vs. Appaloosa

[Jay LePree]

Hi all:

I am deciding between an Appaloosa (Atlantis-like) and the Platypus  (Chevoit like).  I would plan to use the bicycle for commuting and long rides on pavement and gravel/double track (with some roots and rocks thrown in - nothing technical - but in NJ we don't have smooth fire trails, our woods have a lot of roots and rocks.).

Does anyone have a Chevoit or an Appaloosa that can comment?  I am thinking the Platypus would be a better for me (as I don't plan to carry more than 30 pounds).  Just not sure for riding dirt roads and in the woods of NJ with roots and rocks (nothing technical but just not smooth dirt.)

Jay

Demarest, NJ

[Joe Bernard]

I've owned an Appaloosa and Cheviot and they felt pretty similar to me as road bikes (I didn't ride trails). The only demerit I would give the Chev for your riding conditions is caliper brakes, but that's been changed on the Platypus to the same v-brakes as Appaloosa. Between Appa and Platy I would pick my favorite color and standover preference, LimeOlive Platypus!*

*Actually I would pick the Raspberry Metallic on Leah's Platy but Grant says that's never gonna happen 😁

[Roberta]

Jay, 

I’m selling my Joe Appaloosa complete bike to buy a Platypus. I think the Joe A is great for what you’re looking for and the reason I’m selling it vs my AHH is , specifically , that I don’t ride off roads like you’re describing. ( I’ve been procrastinating on listing it. ). It is great for the poorly maintained roads  of Philadlelphia , with potholes and awful patch jobs and trolly tracks. I’ve ridden a Chev a few times but I didn’t think it had the same magical ride as the Joe. Hence, the Joe purchase and not the Chev. I’m hoping that the Platy is magical and from what Leah describes, it is. 

If you are interested in a full bike 51 cm Joe A, I’ll be in N NJ this weekend. Otherwise I’m not too far in Philadelphia, just down the turnpike .    If you’re willing to wait, I’d be happy to let you test ride my 55 Platy when I get it. However, I’m not too sure it will be avail past the day it goes on sale. PM me if interested in Joe A or a ride on the Platy. 

Roberta