Bicycle for the streets, yo! - Tilted Forum Project Discussion Community

Jinn · 09-21-2005, 08:50 AM

I live 5 miles from work and 3 miles from school, so I figure I could save some gas money AND get in better shape by doing that route on a bike. That said, I don't know a fckin thing about bicycles. Zip, nada, zilch. I had a sturdy mountain bike when I was a kid in the mountains, but its rusted over with two flat tires in my backyard. Now that I live in the "big city," I imagine a lighter bike would suffice for asphalt streets. What else should I be looking for? I'm hoping to buy one in the next week, hopefully for under $150..

Any bicycle enthusiants able to tell me what makes a "good" bike?

aberkok · 09-21-2005, 09:19 AM

Just a few things off the top of my head.

I'm not sure what can be had for $150 in the states, but if possible, go to a dedicated bike store. The quality is much higher and usually they have decent support plans (like free tune-ups, etc.). Trust me at department stores and places like Costco (or the States equivalent) usually sell crappy bikes.

You are on the right track with your tire thinking. Chunky mountain bike tires with treads are useful for traction off-road, but will create unneeded friction on a smoother road. Thin and smooth is your friend under ideal conditions, but you'll probably want something in-between. "Semi-slicks" would probably be good as they are smooth on the part that touches the road, but bumpy just outside of the smooth strip, which makes it safer on turns especially when it's wet outside.

Your budget probably won't allow you to replace the seat, but do not waste money on a gel seat cover. Better to get a more ergonomically shaped seat. As far as other accessories, you'll need a lock, but keep in mind when buying a bike that a dedicated thief will always get your bike and no lock can prevent it, so don't go all out on your lock. Better to be more strategic about where you lock it (my favourite tactic is to make sure there's a better bike around

). Also, I'm a big fan of bike-gloves, which decrease slipping in the rain. A bell is essential, but drivers usually can't hear them from inside the car

. Unfortunately your only option to get even with car horns is the super bitchin' air horn which requires a refillable air cartridge the size of a water bottle. It's about 5 times as expensive as a bell and I'm sure it's fun to scare people with but no one I know owns one, so stick with a bell. Make sure you get the ones that go *ping!* instead of *br-r-r-r-r-ing!*, they're much more manly.

As far as the actual bike, you are looking for a road bike or a hybrid. In your price range I suspect you'll be able to find a good hybrid. Don't rule out a reliable used seller either!

Charlatan · 09-21-2005, 09:32 AM

I would take your mountain bike to a good bike shop and have it tuned up. It costs about $25 here for a general tune up.

I would then have them replace the wide knobbly mountain bike treads with a set of street tires (they have smoother treads and are generally narrower). While you at it get some fenders (get ones that are fixed in place rather than removable ones).

I was a bike courier back in ancient times and I used my mountian bike everyday. The key is to keep it tuned and to have the right tires. You should be able to get all of this for under $150.

I say all this on the assumption that your mountain bike is a realtively good bike to start with. Any bike you buy for $150 isn't going to be all that great. It is likely that will weigh a ton and have very lousy componentry.

Charlatan · 09-21-2005, 09:37 AM

If you are going to get a new (or new to you) bike I would second Aberkok's idea of a hybrid bike. While the lightness of the street bike is great, I've never found them study enough to take the pounding I give them going over curbs, hitting the occasional sewer grate, going through pot holes, etc. They are great for long rides but not so hot for urban warfare, in my opinion.

thingstodo · 09-21-2005, 02:32 PM

$150 won't get you much decent in a good bike store. I suggest you look into quality used. Raleigh makes a good hybrid with the aluminum running a little over $400 new, so used would be reasonable.

Ditto suggestions like a good, skinny seat - not quite as skinny as a road bike but one that does fit you "sit bones." And STAY AWAY from any seat with gel!!!! Unless you like numb nuts - literally.

As you get into it you might later ad clipless peddles for greater efficiency, a wireless speedometer/odometer...you'll figure it out. It also does help to have a good bike store for work, advice and to buy the other stuff you'll want later - plus advice on that seat, the first thing to buy after a lock and helmut.

Rodney · 09-23-2005, 05:16 AM

Used hybrid, definitely. Tough enough not to get into trouble on rough streets, RR tracks, dirt or gravel roads. An older Trek hybrid might do the job. I've got one, 7-8 years old, and it's fine.

Charlatan · 09-23-2005, 05:43 AM

Regarding the seat... get one with a hole or a groove in it. Takes the pressure off and prevents numb nuts.

jwoody · 09-23-2005, 07:33 AM

It's a fact that thousands of bikes are stolen every day.

Is there a police auction anywhere near you, where you could pick up one of the recovered but un-claimed bikes at a knock down price?

the_tyipist · 09-27-2005, 11:43 AM

I have been commuting for about 8 years, 10km each way. Initally I bought a new mountain bike, and rode it until it got stolen from my garage. I then bought another mountain bike and rode it for about five years. The best thing I did on my mountain bike was get slicks. It decreased my time a lot. After about 4 years, my bike wore out. I had to replace the drive train, that cost about $800. The next week I went out and bought an $80 used road bike from a dealer who had just tuned it up. I have been riding it for about 3 years now. It is a great bike, much faster than a mountain bike, and if there is a problem with it, it is practically disposable.
My recommendation is by an old used road bike.

dman2 · 10-01-2005, 06:04 AM

I agree, hybrid. You can get a good one, Trek for example for less than $400. Keep in mind, if you are buying brand new, you will not get all the best components you want for $400. I suggest checking the internet or your local trader or newspaper. A lot of times people spend good money on a nice bike and they either can't commit to riding it or just dont' have time. They spend the $600 or $700+ on the bike and now just want to get rid of it. Check it out first and if you can, run it by a bike shop like you would a car to get it checked out and tuned up. As others have already stated, usually the more you spend, the lighter the bike. You don't want a department store bike that weighs a ton. No fun at all and the components will wear out fast.
I bought my wife a Trek and I purchased a Gary Fisher. They are both good bikes. I need to take my own advice and get slicks on my bike.

sprocket · 10-01-2005, 10:44 AM

Buying from most dedicated bike shops is a safe bet. Usually only quality brands. But good luck finding one for under $150, that will be enjoyable to ride.

One thing to consider when buying a bike: most bike shops will give you some kind of free service on bikes you purchase from them. Shop around at your local bike shops and see who offers the best service. At a bike shop that i used to work for here in charlotte, we offered 3 years of free adjustments and tuneups.

Its a trade off.. get a decent bike for around $400 (give or take a few bucks) w/ free service from a shop.. or buy a $150 dollar shit bike from kmart and eventually spend stupid amounts of money to fix a bad bike that rides horribly. Pay now, or pay later.

About the only thing you can get for $150 these days thats decent quality from a real bike shop is a beach cruiser. But mabye thats all you need. $300 or so is about the going price for an entry level bike from any of the good bike manufacturers, so dont expect to pay less than that.

Aladdin Sane · 10-01-2005, 11:52 AM

I just purchased 4 hybreds for my family. They are great bikes. I love mine. Mine was $220 in a local bicycle shop. The brand is Trek. Made in Wisconsin, I believe. I recommend it.

greyeyes · 10-13-2005, 07:57 AM

Hell, dude, you can get a good used road bike from a thrift store or a Pawn shop for anywhere between 40 to 150 bucks. They usually would need a tune up, new tubes, and perhaps a new chain (if it's in really shabby condition) but it really is a great deal. My personal favourite bike-on-a-budget is the 70's style 'leaver type shifter' bike they are really decent and if all you need to be riding is 3 to five miles it will definately be a perfect buy for you. I used to ride a +-2000 dollar mountain bike with road slicks to and from school but they really are just too heavy for riding on the street. Plus if it's really windy you will be you're own parachute on a mountain bike because you sit up so straight which is a real pain in the ass. If you ask around (curriers usually know or anyone who might be riding an old road bike) there might be a place that specializes in donated used bikes (you really can find some awesome deals at places like this). I know of two places here in ATL that fix up old donated bikes; have a friend who used to work there and he said that some people would sometimes donate 400 dollar bikes without knowing it and you can turn around and buy it for 20 bucks. All this takes is some research, check into it and let me know how the search turns out!!

greyeyes · 10-13-2005, 08:01 AM

Oh yeah, another reason not to get a mountain bike is is that they are more prone to get stolen (at least here they are anyway). That's just word on the street.

09-21-2005, 08:50 AM	#1 (permalink)
Jinn Lover - Protector - Teacher Location: Seattle, WA	Bicycle for the streets, yo! I live 5 miles from work and 3 miles from school, so I figure I could save some gas money AND get in better shape by doing that route on a bike. That said, I don't know a fckin thing about bicycles. Zip, nada, zilch. I had a sturdy mountain bike when I was a kid in the mountains, but its rusted over with two flat tires in my backyard. Now that I live in the "big city," I imagine a lighter bike would suffice for asphalt streets. What else should I be looking for? I'm hoping to buy one in the next week, hopefully for under $150.. Any bicycle enthusiants able to tell me what makes a "good" bike? __________________ "I'm typing on a computer of science, which is being sent by science wires to a little science server where you can access it. I'm not typing on a computer of philosophy or religion or whatever other thing you think can be used to understand the universe because they're a poor substitute in the role of understanding the universe which exists independent from ourselves." - Willravel

09-21-2005, 09:19 AM	#2 (permalink)
aberkok “Wrong is right.” Location: toronto	Just a few things off the top of my head. I'm not sure what can be had for $150 in the states, but if possible, go to a dedicated bike store. The quality is much higher and usually they have decent support plans (like free tune-ups, etc.). Trust me at department stores and places like Costco (or the States equivalent) usually sell crappy bikes. You are on the right track with your tire thinking. Chunky mountain bike tires with treads are useful for traction off-road, but will create unneeded friction on a smoother road. Thin and smooth is your friend under ideal conditions, but you'll probably want something in-between. "Semi-slicks" would probably be good as they are smooth on the part that touches the road, but bumpy just outside of the smooth strip, which makes it safer on turns especially when it's wet outside. Your budget probably won't allow you to replace the seat, but do not waste money on a gel seat cover. Better to get a more ergonomically shaped seat. As far as other accessories, you'll need a lock, but keep in mind when buying a bike that a dedicated thief will always get your bike and no lock can prevent it, so don't go all out on your lock. Better to be more strategic about where you lock it (my favourite tactic is to make sure there's a better bike around ). Also, I'm a big fan of bike-gloves, which decrease slipping in the rain. A bell is essential, but drivers usually can't hear them from inside the car . Unfortunately your only option to get even with car horns is the super bitchin' air horn which requires a refillable air cartridge the size of a water bottle. It's about 5 times as expensive as a bell and I'm sure it's fun to scare people with but no one I know owns one, so stick with a bell. Make sure you get the ones that go ping! instead of br-r-r-r-r-ing!, they're much more manly. As far as the actual bike, you are looking for a road bike or a hybrid. In your price range I suspect you'll be able to find a good hybrid. Don't rule out a reliable used seller either! __________________ !check out my new blog! http://arkanamusic.wordpress.com Warden Gentiles: "It? Perfectly innocent. But I can see how, if our roles were reversed, I might have you beaten with a pillowcase full of batteries."

09-21-2005, 09:32 AM	#3 (permalink)
Charlatan Getting it. Super Moderator Location: Lion City	I would take your mountain bike to a good bike shop and have it tuned up. It costs about $25 here for a general tune up. I would then have them replace the wide knobbly mountain bike treads with a set of street tires (they have smoother treads and are generally narrower). While you at it get some fenders (get ones that are fixed in place rather than removable ones). I was a bike courier back in ancient times and I used my mountian bike everyday. The key is to keep it tuned and to have the right tires. You should be able to get all of this for under $150. I say all this on the assumption that your mountain bike is a realtively good bike to start with. Any bike you buy for $150 isn't going to be all that great. It is likely that will weigh a ton and have very lousy componentry. __________________ "My hands are on fire. Hands are on fire. Ain't got no more time for all you charlatans and liars." - Old Man Luedecke

09-21-2005, 09:37 AM	#4 (permalink)
Charlatan Getting it. Super Moderator Location: Lion City	If you are going to get a new (or new to you) bike I would second Aberkok's idea of a hybrid bike. While the lightness of the street bike is great, I've never found them study enough to take the pounding I give them going over curbs, hitting the occasional sewer grate, going through pot holes, etc. They are great for long rides but not so hot for urban warfare, in my opinion. __________________ "My hands are on fire. Hands are on fire. Ain't got no more time for all you charlatans and liars." - Old Man Luedecke

09-21-2005, 02:32 PM	#5 (permalink)
thingstodo A Storm Is Coming Location: The Great White North	$150 won't get you much decent in a good bike store. I suggest you look into quality used. Raleigh makes a good hybrid with the aluminum running a little over $400 new, so used would be reasonable. Ditto suggestions like a good, skinny seat - not quite as skinny as a road bike but one that does fit you "sit bones." And STAY AWAY from any seat with gel!!!! Unless you like numb nuts - literally. As you get into it you might later ad clipless peddles for greater efficiency, a wireless speedometer/odometer...you'll figure it out. It also does help to have a good bike store for work, advice and to buy the other stuff you'll want later - plus advice on that seat, the first thing to buy after a lock and helmut. __________________ If you're wringing your hands you can't roll up your shirt sleeves. Stangers have the best candy.

09-23-2005, 05:16 AM	#6 (permalink)
Rodney Observant Ruminant Location: Rich Wannabe Hippie Town	Used hybrid, definitely. Tough enough not to get into trouble on rough streets, RR tracks, dirt or gravel roads. An older Trek hybrid might do the job. I've got one, 7-8 years old, and it's fine.

09-23-2005, 05:43 AM	#7 (permalink)
Charlatan Getting it. Super Moderator Location: Lion City	Regarding the seat... get one with a hole or a groove in it. Takes the pressure off and prevents numb nuts. __________________ "My hands are on fire. Hands are on fire. Ain't got no more time for all you charlatans and liars." - Old Man Luedecke

09-23-2005, 07:33 AM	#8 (permalink)
jwoody Shackle Me Not Location: Newcastle - England.	It's a fact that thousands of bikes are stolen every day. Is there a police auction anywhere near you, where you could pick up one of the recovered but un-claimed bikes at a knock down price? __________________ .

09-27-2005, 11:43 AM	#9 (permalink)
the_tyipist Upright Location: saskatchewan	I have been commuting for about 8 years, 10km each way. Initally I bought a new mountain bike, and rode it until it got stolen from my garage. I then bought another mountain bike and rode it for about five years. The best thing I did on my mountain bike was get slicks. It decreased my time a lot. After about 4 years, my bike wore out. I had to replace the drive train, that cost about $800. The next week I went out and bought an $80 used road bike from a dealer who had just tuned it up. I have been riding it for about 3 years now. It is a great bike, much faster than a mountain bike, and if there is a problem with it, it is practically disposable. My recommendation is by an old used road bike.

10-01-2005, 06:04 AM	#10 (permalink)
dman2 Insane Location: Georgia	I agree, hybrid. You can get a good one, Trek for example for less than $400. Keep in mind, if you are buying brand new, you will not get all the best components you want for $400. I suggest checking the internet or your local trader or newspaper. A lot of times people spend good money on a nice bike and they either can't commit to riding it or just dont' have time. They spend the $600 or $700+ on the bike and now just want to get rid of it. Check it out first and if you can, run it by a bike shop like you would a car to get it checked out and tuned up. As others have already stated, usually the more you spend, the lighter the bike. You don't want a department store bike that weighs a ton. No fun at all and the components will wear out fast. I bought my wife a Trek and I purchased a Gary Fisher. They are both good bikes. I need to take my own advice and get slicks on my bike. __________________ I have to exercise in the morning before my brain figures out what I'm doing. ~Marsha Doble

10-01-2005, 10:44 AM	#11 (permalink)
sprocket Psycho Location: In transit	Buying from most dedicated bike shops is a safe bet. Usually only quality brands. But good luck finding one for under $150, that will be enjoyable to ride. One thing to consider when buying a bike: most bike shops will give you some kind of free service on bikes you purchase from them. Shop around at your local bike shops and see who offers the best service. At a bike shop that i used to work for here in charlotte, we offered 3 years of free adjustments and tuneups. Its a trade off.. get a decent bike for around $400 (give or take a few bucks) w/ free service from a shop.. or buy a $150 dollar shit bike from kmart and eventually spend stupid amounts of money to fix a bad bike that rides horribly. Pay now, or pay later. About the only thing you can get for $150 these days thats decent quality from a real bike shop is a beach cruiser. But mabye thats all you need. $300 or so is about the going price for an entry level bike from any of the good bike manufacturers, so dont expect to pay less than that. __________________ Remember, wherever you go... there you are.

10-01-2005, 11:52 AM	#12 (permalink)
Aladdin Sane Degenerate Location: San Marvelous	I just purchased 4 hybreds for my family. They are great bikes. I love mine. Mine was $220 in a local bicycle shop. The brand is Trek. Made in Wisconsin, I believe. I recommend it. __________________ Ceterum censeo Carthaginem esse delendam.

10-13-2005, 07:57 AM	#13 (permalink)
greyeyes ham on rye would be nice Location: I don't even know anymore	Hell, dude, you can get a good used road bike from a thrift store or a Pawn shop for anywhere between 40 to 150 bucks. They usually would need a tune up, new tubes, and perhaps a new chain (if it's in really shabby condition) but it really is a great deal. My personal favourite bike-on-a-budget is the 70's style 'leaver type shifter' bike they are really decent and if all you need to be riding is 3 to five miles it will definately be a perfect buy for you. I used to ride a +-2000 dollar mountain bike with road slicks to and from school but they really are just too heavy for riding on the street. Plus if it's really windy you will be you're own parachute on a mountain bike because you sit up so straight which is a real pain in the ass. If you ask around (curriers usually know or anyone who might be riding an old road bike) there might be a place that specializes in donated used bikes (you really can find some awesome deals at places like this). I know of two places here in ATL that fix up old donated bikes; have a friend who used to work there and he said that some people would sometimes donate 400 dollar bikes without knowing it and you can turn around and buy it for 20 bucks. All this takes is some research, check into it and let me know how the search turns out!! __________________ I'm kind of jealous of the life I'm supposedly leading. - Zach Braff

10-13-2005, 08:01 AM	#14 (permalink)
greyeyes ham on rye would be nice Location: I don't even know anymore	Oh yeah, another reason not to get a mountain bike is is that they are more prone to get stolen (at least here they are anyway). That's just word on the street. __________________ I'm kind of jealous of the life I'm supposedly leading. - Zach Braff