General Cycling Discussion - Beginner looking for recommendation

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supa xsnrg
08-17-05, 09:08 PM
I have decided to take up biking as another way to get into shape. In the past, all I did was run on streets, asphalt trails, and mountain trails where I see bikers/cyclists past me by. What is a good starter bike that I can use for both street and mountain bikes?

Do you have a favorite bike that you started in? I don't want to spend too much $ right off the bat - maybe $200-300 range. Someone mentioned Giant to me the other day. I've seen ads for the following brands as well - Schwinn, Cannondale, and Trek. Any thoughts on which of these to avoid?

Thanks for the advice. I can't wait to get off my feet!

twahl
08-17-05, 10:04 PM
They are all good brands, although Schwinn is at the bottom of the list. The Giant Cypress bikes can be had in your price range, and are suitable for street and trail riding, but not anything real real rough. They are referred to as "comfort bikes." They aren't high performance, but they are comfortable and easy to ride. Spending a little more can get you on a flat bar road bike, or "hybrid" which will boost your performance, and are what is usually suggested more for fitness riding. That's about a $500 price point.
Nicodemus
08-18-05, 04:07 AM
Do you have a favorite bike that you started in? I don't want to spend too much $ right off the bat - maybe $200-300 range. Someone mentioned Giant to me the other day. I've seen ads for the following brands as well - Schwinn, Cannondale, and Trek. Any thoughts on which of these to avoid?
Good idea. If you're starting out, there's no point spending a lot of money on something you'll hate.

Sorry, can't make any recommendations. There's such a variety of bikes out there it's difficult to recommend a style that'll suit you best - only you will know what works for you.

For mainstream bike brands, I reckon you can't go wrong with Giant, Cannondale, Trek, or Specialized.

Just avoid "wal-mart" bikes.

Good luck, and enjoy your riding!

chris_pnoy
08-18-05, 06:33 AM
Like mentioned, go to actual bike places, and not all-in-one-wonders. You can test ride multiple bikes and talk to bike people that know about bikes. The 200-300 price point is a very good place to start. There are many good bikes in that range, but in the end you will be the one riding it so you should find something comfortable to you!