Author Topic: Looking for bike purchase advice  (Read 1496 times)

SVG

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Looking for bike purchase advice
« on: April 03, 2018, 08:27:58 AM »
Hi All, I've had a quick search of the forums and have not found what I'm looking for. I'm interested in buying a bike for travel around my city (likely only the 6 months we don't have a lot of snow on the ground) and not sure where to start. I'm hoping someone on here can recommend an affordable option for my purposes. Here's what I think is the relevant information:

1. I live in St. John's, NL, Canada. A very hilly city with no bike lanes, roads that are typically in terrible condition, and lots of trails.
2. I want a bike that is simple to maintain and easy to ride (particularly for all those hills mentioned in #1)
3. I'm female, 5'4, 130lbs and in decent shape
4. I have a 15 month old and access to a free Thule chariot (I'm also interested in child bike seats (what do you all recommend?) I want to make sure I buy a bike that is compatible with child seats etc if needed.
5. I don't use public transit
6. I need it for trips 15km and less
7. I really like the more retro style step through frame bikes

If you have any recommendations or can point me in the right direction, I would really appreciate it.
Thanks!

Just Joe

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Re: Looking for bike purchase advice
« Reply #1 on: April 04, 2018, 09:52:43 AM »
What is your budget?

GuitarStv

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Re: Looking for bike purchase advice
« Reply #2 on: April 04, 2018, 10:42:06 AM »
If it's very hilly and you're going to be towing a child around on a trailer, and you're a smaller person you really want to look for a bike with very easy gearing.  A hybrid (without suspension) would probably suit your needs pretty well (a mountain bike or road bike with front triple and large cogs at the back would work as well).  You should be able to find any of these bikes used, although it might take a bit more effort to find a frame small enough for you.

As far as maintenance, with most bikes you're going to need to occasionally adjust the derailleurs, oil the chain, and replace the brake pads.  You ight have to change a flat every once in a while too (although buying some flat proof tires will go a long way to preventing this.

Just a caution because you mentioned that you like retro step-through style frames . . . A very poor choice for your needs would be a heavy dutch style city bike.  Extremely limited gearing, and a lot of weight will make it difficult to ride up hills and even tougher to pull a heavy kid behind you.

 

Wow, a phone plan for fifteen bucks!