You should be able to find a decent bike for $400, as long as you stay away from the xmart $200 models. Even better than that, search craigs list for a good quality used one that you can easily repair and turn into a fine bike. I built up most of all my bikes and only one very special one run me upwards of $1000 when finished. My good weather commuter is an 83 vintage Fuji road bike that I found at the scrap yard for free and completely restored it to like brand new condition. I may have a total investment of $250 and about 50 hours of my time and it was a lot of fun doing it. I bring my bike into my office and put it in my garage at home so theft is not an issue for me. I never stop anywhere in the city where I would have to lock it up. Best of luck in your decision.