Pacific Northwest - need a road/touring bike -- not so pricey, though

Hey folks,

I'm hoping for some advice. I'd like to pick up a road/touring bike for weekend fun and occasional mid-distance commuting (15 mi one-way).

I've been cruising craigslist and seen some fun stuff like a Volkscycle (can't tell, but seems like a piece o'crap), vintage Schwinns, vintage Fujis, and tons more. Then I also saw some new cheap-o bikes like this: schwinn varsity @ walmart (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=4698938)

For what I'm looking for, that new one might not be bad. Esp as my inseam is 30" so anything from 54-58 cm would do well for me.

So basically, I'm lost. I rode my first bike (a Trek 820) for many many miles in multiple cities and for over 10 years. It just didn't make the last move out to Seattle with me. Any advice on what to look for on CL or places to look off CL? (I'm in Seattle proper)

Get an old Trek 520. Highly regarded as a solid tourer.

First off, welcome to the Emerald City! What's you budget like?

I'd check out Recycled Cycles (U-district) before anything else, at least then you get to test ride it. They have quite a few used bikes in good working condition, for good prices. Tons of parts too.

If you have a bit more dough, perhaps a Surly would be in order for you.

If you don't really need a touring bike (long wheelbase, mounts for panniers, etc) then just about any road bike will do.

Recycled Cycles is a good bet for used bikes. Also, call 2020 cycles in the Central District or go to BikeWorks in Rainier Valley if you want to check out used bikes in person.

Personally, I love Seattle Craigslist, have bought a number of used bikes there. Just have to have the expected patience dealing with kooks, flakes, etc....but plenty of nice bikes there.

Two options - get to know what you'd like in a new bike, and then set up a search for one of those on Seattle Craigslist - you should expect to save 40% to 50% on a bike that is only a couple of years old.

If you've got the skills/patience to deal with something older, I'm a fan of Japanese bikes from the 80's -- make sure you get one with quality components, alloy rims, double-butted tubing...plenty on Craigslist for $150 to $300, depending on condition. Brands - Fuji, Univega, Miyata, Panasonic, Centurion, Lotus. All of them made some bikes of different types and different quality levels.

My budget is probably $300 right now for getting something that's rideable. I was figuring ~$150 on CL then another ~$100 to fix whatever was wrong ... That is unless I run into a gearhead selling a bike in great condition.

Don't mind paying up later for something new, just not right now :)

Will head out and check recycled, 2020 and bikeworks, though.