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Priority’s sporty new Eight belt drive commuter bike hits the streets

Priority Bicycles Eight, angle, feature pic
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Priority Bicycles Eight, on stand

It seems New York’s Priority Bicycles hit the nail on the head by producing a line of simple, low maintenance commuter bikes. After finding overwhelming success launching the brand on Kickstarter in 2014, they are now distributing thousands of bicycles around the globe. We previously checked out their Classic model and their clever kids bike the Start, and since then Priority has added to their product line with a new commuter bike called the Eight.

The Eight is the new higher performance brother to the Classic, but retains the brand’s tradition of using long lasting, low maintenance parts like an aluminum frame and fork, Gates belt drive system and hydraulic disc brakes. It also upholds Priority’s very competitive pricing scheme, selling to pre-sale buyers at just under $800.

The Eight was first made available during an exclusive pre-sale to the Priority community, which sold out in ten days. Due to demand, a second run is now on the way and this time anyone can get in on the deal. A limited number of Eights are being offered on a first come first serve basis, so if you’re interested don’t wait to place your order…

Priority Bicycles Eight, angle

While roughly based around the earlier Classic model the Eight was borne of a more racey spirit, answering the request of many of Priority’s customers. The frame features more aggressive geometry (still balanced with rider comfort for easy cruising) and it’s outfitted with higher end componentry, aiming the Eight towards the performance-minded commuter or sport touring rider.

Priority Bicycles Eight, front end and fork

The Eight is built around a lightweight, rustproof 6061 T6 aluminum frame and fork which helps keep the complete bike’s total weight at a reasonable 26lbs. It fits fast rolling 700c wheels, and boasts an ideal build of durable, low-maintenance components.

Priority Bicycles Eight, drivetrain and bars

With performance in mind the Eight offers a greater gear range then Priority’s three speed Classic. As you might assume from the model name, an eight speed Shimano internal hub mated to a Nexus Twist shifter provides the necessary range for tackling all kinds of terrain.

Priority Bicycles Eight, Gates belt drive system

The folks at Priority Bicycles are such big fans of Gates belt drive systems that you’ll find one on all of their bikes. The Eight uses Gates’ carbon belt drive system for a commuter friendly grease free, low maintenance drivetrain setup.

Other noteworthy components include Tektro dual-piston hydraulic disc brakes, double wall alloy rims, sealed BB and front hub bearings, paint-matched alloy fenders, and Continental puncture resistant tires. Your wheels and seat are also held safe and secure with good ol’ nuts instead of QR’s.

Priority Bicycles Eight, side shot
Photos courtesy of Priority Bicycles

The Eight is sold in Matte Charcoal Grey only, and frames come in 17, 19, and 21.5” sizes which should fit riders between roughly 5’4” and 6’5”. Buyers can pre-order an Eight direct from Priority Bicycles’ website for just $799 USD, but after the pre-sale the retail price will rise to $999. Delivery is expected for March, and you can place your order here.

prioritybicycles.com

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Craig
Craig
8 years ago

Looks like a well thought out bike but why do so many brands fit front fenders that are too short? Add another 4-5 inches of length and then it might help keep your feet front getting soaked from road spray. Where is Jan Heine, (worlds leading expert on practical fender design), he might have some thoughts on this….

onion
onion
8 years ago

When will the Gates CDN tech be available to the masses?

John
John
8 years ago

“Continental puncture resistant tires” They better be, because changing a rear flat on a belt drive is some major suckage.

Dave Weiner
8 years ago

@Craig, thanks for the feedback! The fenders are a great length, especially with the mud guard. We’ve been testing the bike extensively in the rain and can confirm they do a great job of keeping us dry. If we added another 4-5 inches the fender could rub on the ground! If you’re in NYC, come by and check out the bike!

@John, actually we’ve designed these dropouts to make changing flats really easy. It’s no more difficult than a chain bike, and in fact it’s easier since you’re not getting all greasy. Just pop the wheel off, unhook the Nexus hub and you’re good to go! All of the other bolts you see are for belt tension, which is set at the factory, so you shouldn’t need to adjust these.

Larry
Larry
8 years ago

How does the gear range compare to an 18 or 21 speed bike?

Chris
Chris
8 years ago

I just pre-ordered one. I was a bit unsure about the fit, through, since I’m right at the break point between the medium and large frames. Do you have prototypes in the store? I’m in NY.

Dave Weiner
8 years ago

@Larry, there isn’t a simple answer – the gears are spread really nicely, The overall range of the Shimano 8-speed hubs is 307%. For the majority of riders it has plenty of range.

@Chris, thanks for ordering, you’re going to love the bike! We have a 19″ right now but not the 21.5″. Email us to setup a time to come by, we look forward to meeting you.

@all, with any questions please feel free to email us at info(at)prioritybicycles.com for a fast response.

Larry Lobl
Larry Lobl
8 years ago

would this bike work for most rails to trails including DC to Pittsburgh?

Bob Log
Bob Log
8 years ago

Rails to trails? Absolutely, it would be great.

Ajay Viswanathan
Ajay Viswanathan
7 years ago

Thinking of getting the Eight for my daily commute to work in SF, just reserved to pre-order. I’m 6/6’1″, 190lbs, would the 21″ be a good size?

Michael Harrris
7 years ago

Well, my belt has slipped. I keep adjusting it yet it always slips going up a bridge on the island I live on which isn’t steep as old people ride up it. It also slips if I accelerate at at red light too quickly so I now walk up the last of the bridge and I make sure i don’t accelerate too quickly and it works.

The problem now is that it’s worn down so if I accelerate quickly it doesn’t skip once it skips ten times. It doesn’t even grab. And my tension is good. Have you found a way to fix this?

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