Author Topic: I need to buy a new bike  (Read 20735 times)

frugalnacho

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5055
  • Age: 41
  • Location: Metro Detroit
I need to buy a new bike
« on: April 03, 2014, 08:04:17 AM »
I figured I would ride my old department store bike until it broke.  Well it broke yesterday.  The one piece crankshaft broke; it snapped at the peddle.

So now I need to acquire a new bike.  I was not impressed with the local bike shop.  It had decent reviews, but after taking me and the wife's bikes in a couple weeks ago I discovered the people working there are not very competent.   The nut on my back wheel wasn't tightened, the fender wasn't attached properly, the brake pads were not in the right position, and the gears did not fully function (they worked better than when I took it in, but not like they are supposed to).   I won't be dealing with that bike shop again.   I disassembled my bike with the broken shaft yesterday and it doesn't seem very complicated.  I feel reasonably confident I can assemble a bike from scratch.  It will take me longer than a pro could do it, but it's probably best I learn how to maintain and check my bikes anyway, so I am not afraid of assembling my own.  I will end up going over every nut and adjustment on the bike anyway because I won't trust whoever assembled it before me.

I've read these MMM posts:

http://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2011/08/24/good-day-to-buy-a-bike/
http://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2011/04/18/get-rich-with-bikes/
http://www.mrmoneymustache.com/2012/05/07/what-do-you-mean-you-dont-have-a-bike/

As well as this posting from Bakari:

http://biodieselhauling.blogspot.com/2012/01/buying-bikes-from-craigslist.html

I still don't feel confident enough, or know enough about what I am looking for to really tell where true value lies.  So I will have no clue if I am actually getting a deal, or if I am getting my money's worth.  Also I would like to get something ASAP.  Buying new might cost me a little more than finding a deal on craigslist, but I also don't want to drive my car to work for the next 2, or 3, or 4 weeks while I look for that perfect bike.

I am anticipating using the bike to commute to work every day (6 miles one-way on paved roads), short trips to the store, and rocking around the neighborhood on mostly pavement.  Probably 2000-3000 miles per year.   I like the idea of having the option to take it trail riding, but realistically I have no one to go with and haven't gone in probably 10 years, so I probably won't end up doing it.  Maybe across the grass/dirt in a local park or playground, but if I do end up taking it to a trail I have a feeling it will end up being a paved trail so I will be using it on pavement close to 95-100% of the time. 

Here is my local craigslist if anyone wants to help me search for bikes available right now:

http://detroit.craigslist.org/

Beyond craigslist where should I check to get another bike?  Any other advice or suggestions?

GuitarStv

  • Senior Mustachian
  • ********
  • Posts: 23129
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #1 on: April 03, 2014, 08:40:32 AM »
If you want something that works well and is set up to ride immediately, you would probably do best at a bike shop.  Maybe you could drive to a different one if you don't like the one that's close by to you.  It's a huge benefit to be able to measure yourself on an actual bike to get your sizing right.

Ordering online you'll have to wait for the bike to be shipped, then you'll have to spend some time greasing up everything that needs to be greased (hubs, bottom bracket, seatpost, pedals and threads, all the little screw ends that go into the frame) and adjusting everything else (both derailleurs, brakes, headset, etc.).  It's certainly doable/not rocket science, but will take more work.  It's also critical that you know what top tube length you like, and general bike sizing info because you don't want to be stuck on a too small/too large bike.

Craigslist bikes can be a bit of a crapshoot.  There are often little things that you don't notice when you go and get your bike that become a bit of a PITA later on.  The rear hub in a bike I got of craigslist had almost no grease in it for example, and after a couple weeks riding the bearings were shot and I needed to replace them.  If you're an odd size (very large or very small) it's hard to find a bike too . . . and regardless it might take you a few weeks or months to learn to read your local market and find a good deal that pops up.

the fixer

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1029
  • Location: Seattle, WA
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #2 on: April 03, 2014, 08:59:26 AM »
Perhaps the most important adjustment on a new bike is the hubs. This is also one of the most difficult. Bicycle hubs are assembled by machine and they come from the factory overtightened. If you just slap the wheel on the bike straight from the factory, you're grinding up the hub bearings and cones, shortening their life. Adjusting them requires a lot of patience and a special $15 cone wrench, which is just a crescent wrench made out of thin stamped steel.

I've found the trick to Craigslist, if you're not looking to do a bunch of work fixing up the bike you get, is to find someone who fixes and flips bikes. The people who say on their listings that they have multiple bikes for sale are doing this, and you would expect them to show you a bike that's in good condition all-around because they should have taken care of everything.

frugalnacho

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5055
  • Age: 41
  • Location: Metro Detroit
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #3 on: April 03, 2014, 09:33:36 AM »
I'm not concerned with immediate rideability per say.   I can wait long enough to ship and assemble something.  I just don't want to embark on a long open ended search; I want something, and I want it soonish, and i'm not afraid to put a little work in and learn how to assemble and adjust things.  I'm especially afraid because I feel my ignorance and inexperience in the area means I won't be able to find a good deal.  I don't even know what a good deal is - I see bikes ranging from $50 to $3000 on craigslist and I have very little knowledge of what differentiates them or makes them worth what they are (or if they are even posted for a fair price - most people on craigslist are not trustworthy).  I have only owned about 3 bikes in my life and they were all cheap department store bikes.  They seemed to serve me well up until yesterday.

I don't want to drop $1000 on a bike, but I don't want another $100 piece of crap either.  I have money and I want to get something middle of the road that will suit my needs, but also be quality and serve me for many years to come.

I've not found anyone on craigslist selling multiple bikes besides dealers.   Maybe I an searching for the wrong terms though? Or maybe my area is not good for bikes? Or maybe it's not the right time of year?

What's the deal with nashbar.com selling bikes for like 50% off?  MMM says he ordered a bike from there, but I am always skeptical that when something is "$600 MSRP" on sale for $299, that $299 is the real price and the "$600 MSRP" is inflated just so they can say its 50% off.  Is that what's going on?  MMM seemed to recommend them, but all his links in the article are now broken so I would have to find something on my own.

GuitarStv

  • Senior Mustachian
  • ********
  • Posts: 23129
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #4 on: April 03, 2014, 09:45:08 AM »
I bought Nashbar's steel touring bike a couple years ago when they were on sale for 600$.  It has been a pretty awesome bike, but it was annoying waiting for the price to bounce down to a reasonable level.  They do screw with the pricing on a regular basis on that website.

I'd check out something like this:
http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/windsor/tourist-touring-bikes-v.htm

if you're looking for a brand new touring bike.

greaper007

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1117
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #5 on: April 03, 2014, 10:02:03 AM »
If you're able to not drive to work, factor the cost savings into any bicycle purchase.    How much does a tank of gas cost you?   How about vehicle maintenance?   Try contacting your insurance company to let them know you're now only driving a few thousand miles a year, sometimes that will lower the premium.    Maybe you can even sell a car.   Don't forget about the added health benefits of having a bike you actually want to ride.

Once you start to look at a bike purchase like that, $400-$1000 (and I really don't think you need to spend $1000) doesn't seem excessive.    I think the best thing you can do is start hitting up all the local bike shops in your area.   Find a low pressure knowledgeable sales associate and let them know what you need.   They should be able to help you find what you need at an affordable price.    Make sure you test ride lots of bikes in lots of sizes.   Throw in some different configurations like drop bars, upright bars, flat bars etc.    And don't forget that fit can be tweaked with things like new saddles, stems and bars.

A good low to mid level bike shop bike should last you 20+ years.   Maintenance bills shouldn't be more than $100 on a bad year.

Just imagine if you could buy a car that didn't ever need fuel for say $3000, the lines would be out the door.   You have that option with a bike.

waltworks

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5653
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #6 on: April 03, 2014, 10:05:06 AM »
Do you have any cyclist friends? If so, you can probably get them to help you out figuring out if something is worth looking at/decent.

If buying new, spend $400+. At below that price you'll usually end up spend a ton replacing cheap parts and doing extra maintenance. Most shops will offer a free tuneup or two as part of your purchase.

Also look for a community bike charity nearby. Often you can build yourself a bike with tutelage from an expert mechanic in exchange for a few hours of volunteering at the front desk.

-W

the fixer

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1029
  • Location: Seattle, WA
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #7 on: April 03, 2014, 10:24:08 AM »
Here are some that are worth investigating further:
https://detroit.craigslist.org/okl/bik/4405080126.html
https://detroit.craigslist.org/okl/bik/4401479160.html
https://detroit.craigslist.org/okl/bik/4399574575.html (Not an amazing find but this still seems underpriced to me)
https://detroit.craigslist.org/okl/bik/4404617561.html (This one's okay if you really wanted a recent road bike, but you probably don't need to spend this much. The ad is quite educational, though: this is what a good ad from a knowledgeable seller is going to look like, with a good description, why they're selling, and even a link to Bikepedia!)

Obviously I don't know your size so you should try to evaluate fit via email/text with the seller if they didn't provide specifics. If it sounds like you might fit the bike then go see it.

So you can learn more about what makes the above bikes decent, I'll show some links of what NOT to buy in your area:
https://detroit.craigslist.org/okl/bik/4405289941.html This is a POS department store bike. It's also a "cruiser" design which is extremely slow, inefficient, and usually poorly built. I can tell all of this because the brand of the bike (Empire) is not one I've ever heard of before, the rear rack has a funky design for aesthetic purposes, the fenders aren't full coverage, and it has that stupid purple piece inside the front wheel. Avoid.
https://detroit.craigslist.org/okl/bik/4405028212.html This is an estate sale. If you had a bunch of experience working with older bikes this might be a great find as a fixer-upper, but you'd have to see it in person to know for sure. Absolute crapshoot on how well this was maintained, and from the visible corrosion in several places I'd say not very well. Restoring old bikes is a skill.

Thegoblinchief

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #8 on: April 03, 2014, 11:35:07 AM »
I am personally a fan of hybrids. I have a Trek 7500 FX, which is currently a $1,000 brand-new, but mine was 10 years old, well-maintained and $250. Hybrids I'm familiar with are the FX series from Trek and Specialized's Cirrus. Giant seems to be pretty common used in my area and I've heard good things.

Hybrids are fast, stable in crappy weather, and typically have mounting points for fenders and a rear rack. Used bikes may already have all this installed. Frame size is important. I've discovered that for my DW (5'0") I'll almost certainly have to break down and buy a bike new.

I didn't know about hub adjustment - I'll have to check that on my bike. Good to know!

If your LBS sucks, do you have any community bike shops? Detroit might not, but what about a college area like Ann Arbor or a ritzier suburb like Dearborn Heights? My knowledge of eastern MI is spotty.

GuitarStv

  • Senior Mustachian
  • ********
  • Posts: 23129
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #9 on: April 03, 2014, 11:40:18 AM »
These bikes are built in Detroit and look pretty damned bomb proof.  Might be worth checking out.  Comes with fenders and a rack, internal hub so minimal maintenance . . . 3 speed gearing might not work for you if you have lots of hills though.

http://detroitbikes.com/the-bike/

Thegoblinchief

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #10 on: April 03, 2014, 11:44:01 AM »
What is with all the wacky motorized bikes in your area? Holy crap.

Anyways, here's a few ads I'd check out:

http://detroit.craigslist.org/wyn/bik/4381899582.html

http://detroit.craigslist.org/wyn/bik/4386539288.html (Overpriced. If you could get if for $100, though, a few around here have Univegas.)

If you need a smaller frame: http://detroit.craigslist.org/mcb/bid/4365952837.html

Hey, a Trek FX! Great price on this: http://detroit.craigslist.org/okl/bik/4400134210.html


Thegoblinchief

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #11 on: April 03, 2014, 11:49:05 AM »
These bikes are built in Detroit and look pretty damned bomb proof.  Might be worth checking out.  Comes with fenders and a rack, internal hub so minimal maintenance . . . 3 speed gearing might not work for you if you have lots of hills though.

http://detroitbikes.com/the-bike/

Arguably "worth" $700 based on specs but no way I'd buy it unless there was a different rear hub option.

GuitarStv

  • Senior Mustachian
  • ********
  • Posts: 23129
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #12 on: April 03, 2014, 12:07:16 PM »
Dunno how the gearing ratios work out . . . but after a couple cold winters having to maintain derailleurs through salt and snow I'd be open to the idea.

Thegoblinchief

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #13 on: April 03, 2014, 12:13:22 PM »
Dunno how the gearing ratios work out . . . but after a couple cold winters having to maintain derailleurs through salt and snow I'd be open to the idea.

I had more problems with the cables than the derailleurs themselves.

frugalnacho

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5055
  • Age: 41
  • Location: Metro Detroit
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #14 on: April 03, 2014, 12:15:03 PM »
I am about 6'1" with shoes on, and 230 lbs.

It seems like according to the sizing charts on bikesdirect that many of the bikes seem to sell out of my size quickly.

frugalnacho

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5055
  • Age: 41
  • Location: Metro Detroit
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #15 on: April 03, 2014, 12:19:21 PM »
Many of these craigslist ads seem pretty far away from me.   I don't know how productive driving 40 minutes one way would be to check out a used bike.

GuitarStv

  • Senior Mustachian
  • ********
  • Posts: 23129
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #16 on: April 03, 2014, 12:21:42 PM »
I really recommend you look for a bike with a 36 spoke double walled rear tire (ideally with butted spokes).  At your weight, you're going to be hard on rear wheels.  (I'm 210 and regularly carry 30-40 lbs of stuff on my bike so am in a similar boat).  The front wheel doesn't matter as much, but you want to look for a strong rear wheel.  Or get good at replacing broken spokes.

Thegoblinchief

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #17 on: April 03, 2014, 12:23:34 PM »
I am about 6'1" with shoes on, and 230 lbs.

It seems like according to the sizing charts on bikesdirect that many of the bikes seem to sell out of my size quickly.

The very first bike I linked (Specialized Cruz Hybrid) on CL is the correct size for you. The others are too small.

Apologies if the geography doesn't work out.

serhomeslice

  • 5 O'Clock Shadow
  • *
  • Posts: 42
  • Age: 53
  • Location: Buford, GA
  • FI or die...
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #18 on: April 03, 2014, 01:05:44 PM »
Something like this may suit you:

http://www.rei.com/product/837487/novara-buzz-bike-2014

Love REI, but don't shop there often cause prices are kind of high.  I would have no problem buying a bike there if I needed one.  They have also helped me with a good deal of bike maintenance and they have done a lot of pro bono work as well.  I bought an expensive Klein back when I was a spending idiot (facepunch ), but I love it.

« Last Edit: April 03, 2014, 01:08:26 PM by serhomeslice »

Janie

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #19 on: April 04, 2014, 05:17:03 AM »
Something like this may suit you:

http://www.rei.com/product/837487/novara-buzz-bike-2014

Love REI, but don't shop there often cause prices are kind of high.  I would have no problem buying a bike there if I needed one.  They have also helped me with a good deal of bike maintenance and they have done a lot of pro bono work as well.  I bought an expensive Klein back when I was a spending idiot (facepunch ), but I love it.

And if you're an REI member, use the code SAVE20 for 20% off through April 13th.

GuitarStv

  • Senior Mustachian
  • ********
  • Posts: 23129
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #20 on: April 04, 2014, 06:02:33 AM »
I like that REI bike, it looks pretty decent.  Do you prefer flat bars or drop?

Thegoblinchief

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #21 on: April 04, 2014, 06:24:06 AM »
I have heard the SRAM lower end shifters aren't very good compared to Shimano, but otherwise the REI bike looks solid on paper.

frugalnacho

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5055
  • Age: 41
  • Location: Metro Detroit
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #22 on: April 04, 2014, 07:54:39 AM »
I have never owned drop handlebars.  My dad had a ten speed with them and I hated that bike.  Maybe just because I never got used to them, but they were always uncomfortable.   I like the flat handlebars I am accustomed to.

greaper007

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1117
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #23 on: April 04, 2014, 07:59:21 AM »
I have never owned drop handlebars.  My dad had a ten speed with them and I hated that bike.  Maybe just because I never got used to them, but they were always uncomfortable.   I like the flat handlebars I am accustomed to.

See if you can try some mustache or north road bars.    I like the north road because they allow you to sit more upright this giving you more visibility in traffic (and less stress on your back and shoulders than flat bars).     Mustache let you change hand positions, thus giving a more comfortable ride.

Good luck.

GuitarStv

  • Senior Mustachian
  • ********
  • Posts: 23129
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #24 on: April 04, 2014, 08:16:37 AM »
You might find modern drop bars more comfortable . . . the brake hoods have comfy rubber built in now so you can rest your hands there, and handlebar tape is a hell of a lot nicer than the crap that my dad had on his old 10 speed.  I find them much more comfortable to use on long rides and like to be able to duck below the wind in the drops.  But each to his own.  My flat bar winter bike with bar ends is about as comfortable for 10 mile rides.

greaper007

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1117
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #25 on: April 04, 2014, 08:39:22 AM »
You might find modern drop bars more comfortable . . . the brake hoods have comfy rubber built in now so you can rest your hands there, and handlebar tape is a hell of a lot nicer than the crap that my dad had on his old 10 speed.  I find them much more comfortable to use on long rides and like to be able to duck below the wind in the drops.  But each to his own.  My flat bar winter bike with bar ends is about as comfortable for 10 mile rides.

Drop bars do take some getting used to.   It's a completely different way to ride if you've mostly ridden mountain bikes.   But I agree that they're much more comfortable for anything longer than 5 miles once you get used to them.   Just being able to move your hands and change which muscles you're using results in a longer time to fatigue.   

Personally, I've yet to have a flat bar bike that didn't eventually hurt my back and shoulders around the 5-8 mile mark.

frugalnacho

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5055
  • Age: 41
  • Location: Metro Detroit
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #26 on: April 04, 2014, 08:44:23 AM »
I've never had issues being uncomfortable riding the department store mountain bike, even for 20 mile rides.  Of course I was a teenager/early 20-something for those long rides, and I was in significantly better shape than I am now.  My fat 31 year old body may disagree, but I biked into work 6 times over the past couple weeks on it and was not uncomfortable during any of the 6-mile one-way legs.

greaper007

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1117
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #27 on: April 04, 2014, 08:47:17 AM »
I've never had issues being uncomfortable riding the department store mountain bike, even for 20 mile rides.  Of course I was a teenager/early 20-something for those long rides, and I was in significantly better shape than I am now.  My fat 31 year old body may disagree, but I biked into work 6 times over the past couple weeks on it and was not uncomfortable during any of the 6-mile one-way legs.

I'd go with what you like then, and the plus is that lower end mountain bikes are much cheaper than lower end road type bikes.   

Thegoblinchief

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #28 on: April 04, 2014, 10:06:43 AM »
I don't really have comfort issues with flat bars and I've done some 30 or so mile rides.

But even then, I'm probably going to spring for a drop bars or a separate CX or race bike eventually for the traditional nice weather season, because of wind resistance. Hot damn does it suck to push against a headwind on a hybrid.

The drop bars with the extra pegs pointing out forward (no idea what the term for these are) look particularly comfortable for long rides.

greaper007

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1117
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #29 on: April 04, 2014, 10:22:27 AM »
I don't really have comfort issues with flat bars and I've done some 30 or so mile rides.

But even then, I'm probably going to spring for a drop bars or a separate CX or race bike eventually for the traditional nice weather season, because of wind resistance. Hot damn does it suck to push against a headwind on a hybrid.

The drop bars with the extra pegs pointing out forward (no idea what the term for these are) look particularly comfortable for long rides.

Maybe I've never had a mountain bike that fit well (I usually take someone's hand me down and make it work).    But I couldn't go 3 miles without pain on my current ride, then I put north road bars and slickish tires on the sucker and it's a great commuter, still a little small though.

frugalnacho

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5055
  • Age: 41
  • Location: Metro Detroit
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #30 on: April 04, 2014, 10:47:01 AM »
I've never had issues being uncomfortable riding the department store mountain bike, even for 20 mile rides.  Of course I was a teenager/early 20-something for those long rides, and I was in significantly better shape than I am now.  My fat 31 year old body may disagree, but I biked into work 6 times over the past couple weeks on it and was not uncomfortable during any of the 6-mile one-way legs.

I'd go with what you like then, and the plus is that lower end mountain bikes are much cheaper than lower end road type bikes.   

I made do with what I had.  I enjoyed the mountain bike, and love having the ability to hit trails/curbs/parks/etc, but I will be using it mostly on paved roads and I have a feeling I will be pleasantly surprised if I opt to get something more suited to what i'll actually be using it for (and it's better than 15 year old kmart quality).  It seemed like I was exerting an extreme amount of energy to stay up to speed with the few other cyclist that passed me in the road. 

I like the idea of a hybrid because they look like what i'm accustomed to, offer a more efficient pavement/commuting ride than a mountain bike, but I will still be able to take it on the occasional dirt trail (very few actual mountains in michigan).   I'm not concerned too much with gaining maximum efficiency because I feel even a run of the mill hybrid will be such a step up from my last bike that I will still love it and not mind losing a small amount of energy to wind resistance.  Plus i'm partially doing it for a work out, and if the workout is any easier than what I did on the last bike I will be fine with that.

It seems like bikes suited to my size sell out quickly on nashbar and bikes direct.  Every time I check to see what sizes are actually available mine is already sold out.

I don't see any tires that say 36 spokes and double walled.  Lots of them say double walled though.

I think I should just take the plunge and order one.  A $300 bike will have recouped my money in gas/depreciation in about 10 weeks of commuting to work.  If it's $400 then it will take me a little over 13 weeks to recoup it. 

GuitarStv

  • Senior Mustachian
  • ********
  • Posts: 23129
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #31 on: April 04, 2014, 11:06:44 AM »
The rei bike posted earlier is a flat bar bike with some 36 spoked wheels, disk brakes (good for all weather), mounting points for a rear rack and rear/front fenders, beefy tires (can make your ride a bit comfier).  Looks like it might be a good match for what you want.

Thegoblinchief

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #32 on: April 04, 2014, 11:55:48 AM »
I made do with what I had.  I enjoyed the mountain bike, and love having the ability to hit trails/curbs/parks/etc, but I will be using it mostly on paved roads and I have a feeling I will be pleasantly surprised if I opt to get something more suited to what i'll actually be using it for (and it's better than 15 year old kmart quality).  It seemed like I was exerting an extreme amount of energy to stay up to speed with the few other cyclist that passed me in the road. 

I like the idea of a hybrid...

I went from ~15 year old MTB (slightly above department store quality) to a hybrid a few months ago. I had a big stupid grin on my face the very first time I rode my FX. QUANTUM LEAP.

For what it's worth, I have a very pot-holed route, and in over 1,000 miles I haven't broken a spoke on my 22-spoke wheels. Maybe I'm just lucky.

Janie

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #33 on: April 04, 2014, 07:53:15 PM »
I have heard the SRAM lower end shifters aren't very good compared to Shimano, but otherwise the REI bike looks solid on paper.

I'm not sure I agree with that, but OP might want to do his own research to find reviews and comparisons.

Thegoblinchief

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #34 on: April 04, 2014, 07:55:21 PM »
I based the SRAM comment on a few threads I've seen, most recently the comments on this article. Anecdotal yes:

http://thesweethome.com/reviews/best-hybrid-commuter-bike/

DollarBill

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 897
  • Age: 49
  • Location: Austin TX
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #35 on: April 04, 2014, 09:59:29 PM »
Quote
I'm especially afraid because I feel my ignorance and inexperience in the area means I won't be able to find a good deal.

Knowledge yourself with bike maintenance, it's all over youtube. When it come to money you will spend most of it on shaving weight or newest gadgets or latest color. All bikes need maintenance. Pick out one for what you want. I have a mountain bike for off road and a light road bike for speed/distance. Test ride some new ones, if different sizes to see what fits you. You can buy a tank that won't break but go slow or buy a expensive light bike that might bend wheels over a small bump. Pick a happy medium.

I've raced with guys that have 3X the bike I have and kicked their tail. Remember your the engine :). I can do the same on a huffy! 

frugalnacho

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5055
  • Age: 41
  • Location: Metro Detroit
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #36 on: April 05, 2014, 10:36:11 AM »
So what's the difference between a hybrid and an actual mountain bike?  Besides the smooth and flat vs fat knobby tires.  Are mountain bike components built to take more of a beating, assuming they could be used on a rougher mountain trail? Should my weight be factored into that at all (Weight fluctuates 230-240 and I always carry a 10-20lb back pack)?


Thegoblinchief

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #37 on: April 05, 2014, 06:49:50 PM »
So what's the difference between a hybrid and an actual mountain bike?  Besides the smooth and flat vs fat knobby tires.  Are mountain bike components built to take more of a beating, assuming they could be used on a rougher mountain trail? Should my weight be factored into that at all (Weight fluctuates 230-240 and I always carry a 10-20lb back pack)?

MTBs typically have shocks on the fork and seat post, or a full suspension. This gives cushion on bumps and trails, but robs you of power on smooth surfaces. The frame geometry is different, typically at the very least the bottom bracket is higher.

As far as durability goes, I believe drivetrain components are the same across all bike types, just varies depending on price range. Others may be able to confirm or correct me on that.

frugalnacho

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5055
  • Age: 41
  • Location: Metro Detroit
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #38 on: April 05, 2014, 09:19:04 PM »
I went to a local bike shop today and they were apparently having some crazy sale through monday.  The place was packed.  It was unreal how many people were in there.  I spoke with someone and explained my needs and wants, and the guy wanted to sell me the Trek DS 8.3, and it looked nice, but it was like $700 on sale for $560 or there abouts.  I asked if there was something more budget friendly and he steered me towards the 8.1, which is still $440.  It was light and fast.  I took it for a test spin.  World of difference between my old bike and this.  That's still a whole pile of cash to drop though, so I said I would have to think about it and maybe come back tomorrow.

This is the trek ds 8.1:

http://americancycleandfitness.com/product/14trek-8.1-ds-gary-fisher-collection-171802-1.htm

Thegoblinchief

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #39 on: April 06, 2014, 07:24:30 AM »
Why the knobby tires? (At least they look knobby in the picture).

At that price range, compare it to the FX 7.2 or a variant of the Specialized Cirrus if they carry Specialized.

frugalnacho

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5055
  • Age: 41
  • Location: Metro Detroit
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #40 on: April 06, 2014, 11:55:56 AM »
Why the knobby tires? (At least they look knobby in the picture).

At that price range, compare it to the FX 7.2 or a variant of the Specialized Cirrus if they carry Specialized.

They are not knobby like a mountain bike.   Supposedly it's between a road tire and a mountain bike tire allowing the best of both worlds.  During the test ride it felt fine on flat pavement.  Maybe I don't know what I would be missing from a true road tire, but it still feels way better than my previous bike.  I could certainly live with the efficiency provided by that tire.

capital

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 454
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #41 on: April 06, 2014, 02:13:00 PM »
I went to a local bike shop today and they were apparently having some crazy sale through monday.  The place was packed.  It was unreal how many people were in there.  I spoke with someone and explained my needs and wants, and the guy wanted to sell me the Trek DS 8.3, and it looked nice, but it was like $700 on sale for $560 or there abouts.  I asked if there was something more budget friendly and he steered me towards the 8.1, which is still $440.  It was light and fast.  I took it for a test spin.  World of difference between my old bike and this.  That's still a whole pile of cash to drop though, so I said I would have to think about it and maybe come back tomorrow.

This is the trek ds 8.1:

http://americancycleandfitness.com/product/14trek-8.1-ds-gary-fisher-collection-171802-1.htm
That's a good sale for this time of year— normally, bike shops cut prices during the slower winter and bring them back up again when it's springtime. If it's only on until Monday, it'd be worth jumping on that deal.

Both those bikes look fine. The 8.3DS has front suspension, which you don't really need and is just another thing to break. It also appears to have a bit nicer derailleurs. The 8.1 is fine— put any savings you have into getting lights, racks, panniers, fenders, and other equipment useful for commuting.

You might also consider the 7.2FX, appears to be $30 more, and has flat-resistant tires and nicer derailleurs. Those are very worthwhile for the commuter/utilitiy rider.

frugalnacho

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5055
  • Age: 41
  • Location: Metro Detroit
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #42 on: April 06, 2014, 02:38:15 PM »
The trek ds 8.1 comes with 700x38c tires which can't fit fenders.  I would have to swap them out to 35 or smaller tires to accommodate fenders.   I don't feel like spending that kind of money to turn around and start swapping components out to make it what I want.

capital

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 454
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #43 on: April 06, 2014, 02:47:11 PM »
If you want a bike for everyday use and you don't live in a desert, you definitely want fenders— looks like the FX bikes have a bit thinner tires and can fit fenders?

Thegoblinchief

  • Guest
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #44 on: April 06, 2014, 06:01:55 PM »
The trek ds 8.1 comes with 700x38c tires which can't fit fenders.  I would have to swap them out to 35 or smaller tires to accommodate fenders.   I don't feel like spending that kind of money to turn around and start swapping components out to make it what I want.

There are fenders that are wide enough for 38mm tires, unless there's a frame clearance issue.

The SKS P50 fenders I just put on my ride could definitely provide adequate coverage for a tire 3mm wider.

frugalnacho

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5055
  • Age: 41
  • Location: Metro Detroit
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #45 on: April 06, 2014, 08:15:36 PM »
I like the looks of the motobecane elite trail on bikesdirect.

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/elite_trail.htm

Russ

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2211
  • Age: 32
  • Location: Boulder, CO
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #46 on: April 06, 2014, 08:45:57 PM »
multiple people have recommended that you not get suspension on a bike you'll use on nothing gnarlier than manicured grass and crushed limestone

frugalnacho

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 5055
  • Age: 41
  • Location: Metro Detroit
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #47 on: April 06, 2014, 09:15:43 PM »
I would probably use the lock out most of the time.  I like the idea of having the ability to take it on trails, but the suspension was not the main attractor to the bike (other than the ability to lock it).

greaper007

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1117
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #48 on: April 06, 2014, 10:52:50 PM »
I think the $500ish Trek is the way to go over saving a hundred dollars on Bikes Direct.   It's a known entity, while the online bike is a mystery.    If we were talking a 500-1000 dollar difference, it would be worth the risk not for a hundred bucks though.  Actually riding the bike and liking it, along with having the ability to take it back if  there are any problems makes a local purchase make sense.   See if the bike shop offers a free fitting with a purchase.   A lot of places do.   A bike that fits you is definitely worth the extra dough.

And if you're only talking 10-13 weeks to pay off the bike and you're committed to riding, I think you have a justification to spend more if you have to.    I'd say anything you could pay the difference in 6 months is worth it.    Bikes last a very long time with just a little maintenance.

GuitarStv

  • Senior Mustachian
  • ********
  • Posts: 23129
  • Age: 42
  • Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Re: I need to buy a new bike
« Reply #49 on: April 07, 2014, 06:31:12 AM »
I would probably use the lock out most of the time.  I like the idea of having the ability to take it on trails, but the suspension was not the main attractor to the bike (other than the ability to lock it).

What kind of trails are you talking about?  If you're thinking packed dirt/singletrack kinda stuff, you absolutely don't need as suspension for that.  I'd say they're really only necessary if you're regularly doing 2 ft drops, or blasting down the side of a bumpy hill not following a trail.  In addition to adding extra weight, the suspension adds another part of the bike that requires regular maintenance to function - if you're not planning on using it regularly it doesn't really make sense to have.  A suspension often makes it more difficult to mount fenders as well.