Commuting - Best commuter under $300 for a big guy?

I'm on a tight budget but I've decided to ditch the POS wal-mart bike that I've kinda fixed up and get a GOOD bike. Road bikes are out of the question because of my size. I weight just over 300lbs and I ride hard!
My commute is 12miles a day and I just need a good bike! I already have some road tires 26x1.5's that I will put on it. I don't care about suspension, in fact if I could get one without ANY suspension I'd be just as happy. I do NOT want rear suspension, I do NOT care much about brand, etc. LBS was trying to sell me on a Trek 4700 I think it was. Another one says used is the best to go, I could get a better component set for the same price, just used. Going to another LBS to check what they say. Any suggestions?

I just bought a Bianchi Avenue and it's pretty decent, although geared just a bit too low.

$299

http://www.bianchiusa.com/avenue.html

I would keep an eye out in the thrift store, police auctions, and pawn shops for a used bike that will fit your needs. I commute on a 1978 Raleigh Rampar R1027 that I paid $15.95 for in a local thrift shop. I also have a Raleigh Mustang SIS ATB that I got at the same place all decked out for commuting. I'd have a real problem kicking around on a nice bike.

I'd have a real problem kicking around on a nice bike.

Thanks for the helpful advice! Why did you say you'd have a problem riding around on a nice bike? I find that comment interesting. I think I'll go the cheap route and put together a used bike as you've suggested. Just follow the common guidelines for fitting a used bike?

Thanks for the helpful advice! I think I'll go the cheap route and put together a used bike as you've suggested. Just follow the common guidelines for fitting a used bike?

Yeah, watch the bike size. In general, look it over thoroughly. Make sure the wheels are "fairly" true, no frame dents, and insure the drive train is in decent shape. You can really find some great second hand bikes that are just aching to get an owner that will put them to good use. Tis a noble thing to rescue old bikes. :D

There a several threads on Thrift store and police auction bikes here on BF. Just do a search on those words.


Why did you say you'd have a problem riding around on a nice bike? I find that comment interesting.

I ride in all weather conditions. Sun, rain, snow, and ice. So, I like not having to worry about my $500.00 bike in the weather. I guess the biggest reason is that I don't have to worry about hurting the bike or someone wanting to steal it.

Below is my $15.95 thrift store bike I use for daily commuting. All I had to do was lube up the chain, add the rack, and adjust the seat.

Right on. Thanks!!!

Touring-style bikes are strong, tough, fast and practical, and if you can find them used, they can be good value. They are also unfashionable to theives.

A few weeks ago I bought a new, 2003 model Specialized Crossroads for $199. It's a comfort bike, so it has front suspension and a shock absorber in the seatpost. But it has a Cro-Moly frame rather than aluminum, and seems pretty sturdy.

Bill