Author Topic: Need a new bike for work commute  (Read 1648 times)

martyconlonontherun

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Need a new bike for work commute
« on: July 12, 2019, 05:04:12 PM »
Due to my stupidity of only using a cable lock, my bike got stolen this week. I ride about 20 miles RT about 3 times a week. I think my old bike was a nicer Trek Hybrid. Not a bike guy so really unsure of what to buy. Willing to spend up to 1k but prefer closer to $500. I’m open to new or used. Saw Raleigh merit 2 was $700 w installation. I saw some used Trek Edmonda and Trek Fox-4(750) under 1k but to be honest they just looked cool to me without any other insight.

I don’t need a special bikes as I rarely change gears. I ride a paved railroad track basically the whole way. (I don’t think you need to shift gears? Like I said, I’m not a bike guy) I’m looking for something fast but not afraid of pedaling because I like the exercise.

Any suggestions for a new bike or for anyone bored and curious to see what Milwaukee’s Craigslist looks like?
« Last Edit: July 12, 2019, 05:06:24 PM by martyconlonontherun »

JumboShrimp

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Re: Need a new bike for work commute
« Reply #1 on: July 12, 2019, 09:50:20 PM »
No need to spend 500.
You can get a really nice older bike for 250 or less:
https://milwaukee.craigslist.org/search/bia?min_price=100&max_price=250&bicycle_type=6&bicycle_type=10

I would look for a road bike with a 9 or 10 speed rear cassette - shimano 105
Something that has been sitting in a garage and hasn't gotten much use.
like this one: https://milwaukee.craigslist.org/bik/d/slinger-2004-trek-1200/6915290567.html

Honestly though if your ride is flat, the components hardly matter, jut get something comfortable and reasonably light.


FlyJ

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Re: Need a new bike for work commute
« Reply #2 on: July 17, 2019, 10:44:54 AM »
If you want a new bike, Raleigh is a good place to look. This is a nice commuter - https://www.raleighusa.com/redux2-r143. They also have some cheaper ones under the 'Commuter' section. The thing about Raleigh (and Diamondback) is that the "real" prices can only be seen by creating an account through some sort of discount program. Check your employer discounts, or try to sign up for Perkspot through an organizational membership you have (https://www.perkspot.com/). The discount price of that Redux is $543, or this Carlton 8 commuter (https://www.raleighusa.com/carlton8) is $359 vs $549.

mschaus

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Re: Need a new bike for work commute
« Reply #3 on: July 17, 2019, 12:06:13 PM »
Certainly you could go through craigslist to find a great deal on something you like, but if that's not your idea of a good time, by all means just walk into a reputable local bike shop (or even REI). Since you are willing to spend $500-1000, there will be lots of great options from quality brands and the salespeople there will help you choose. Be sure to save that budget for some accessories like a proper lock!

For a flat route you might like a singlespeed, which can be nice because all else being equal they are simpler, cheaper, and lower maintenance. Go get a bike and get riding!

frugaliknowit

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Re: Need a new bike for work commute
« Reply #4 on: July 17, 2019, 01:40:37 PM »
IMHO, the best way to find a bike you like is to test ride some.  Visit some bike shops and ride.  You can also seek out the ones you test road in the used market.

For commuting I am happy with a Specialized Sirrus which start a bit over $500 and are VERY popular in Chicago.  Mine is 15 years old.  I keep rebuilding the drive train as needed.

A Fella from Stella

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Re: Need a new bike for work commute
« Reply #5 on: July 18, 2019, 03:33:41 PM »
IMHO, the best way to find a bike you like is to test ride some.  Visit some bike shops and ride.  You can also seek out the ones you test road in the used market.

For commuting I am happy with a Specialized Sirrus which start a bit over $500 and are VERY popular in Chicago.  Mine is 15 years old.  I keep rebuilding the drive train as needed.

My wife uses a little cruiser bike that was our daughter's, but the ride is just across town.