All-in-one bikes

Dislikes: Trail and gravel-road capability notwithstanding, skinny tires and lack of real suspension make rough single-track riding a no-go.

Price: $2,200. (800) 432-4144; www.specialized.com.

Big knobby express

Diamondback Overdrive 29er: Front-suspension mountain bike with oversized 29-inch tires/wheels, which roll fast on all surfaces.

Likes: Any 29er is a great do-it-all bike because its big wheels roll faster than those of regular mountain bikes on all surfaces. But the Diamondback stands out for price: It's the least-expensive 29er with disc brakes and a suspension lockout, which stiffens the fork and can even amaze roadies with your speed on pavement. Tough and burly, the Overdrive would make a great touring bike or commuter if you clamp on a rack and put on less knobby tires.

Dislikes: No braze-ons for a rack and panniers. But clamping hardware is inexpensive and available. Much heavier than the other bikes, given that it is designed for real mountain biking.

Price: $750. (800) 222-5527, www.diamondback.com.

Any wheel, any time

Rawland Sogn: Lightweight, custom-made do-anything bikes with lots of tire clearance.

Likes: Versatility. Owner Sean Virnig, a small Minnesota custom builder in the mold of Bruce Gordon, has dedicated Rawland solely to the concept of "one bike fits all." His tough Norwegian-themed steel bikes (named to reflect his Nordic heritage) and derivative road-bike drop bars to allow for different hand positions, provide huge clearance for various wheel sizes. So you can swap knobbies and road tires and wheels (700C, 650B and 26-inch) to suit your riding plans. The Sogn, named for a local valley settled by Norwegian immigrants, is designed for touring, commuting and the occasional trial ride. Rack mounts included. Coming this summer: the Drakkar, which has more clearance. Frames include pump pegs and braze-ons for fenders, racks and three water bottles.

Dislikes: None

Price: $799 frame and fork, full bikes from $1,200 to $4,000. (507) 331-2636 (ask for Ben Witt); www.rawlandcycles.com.

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Wallack is the co-author of "Bike for Life: How to Ride to 100." roywallack@aol.com