General Cycling Discussion - I need a different bike, methinks

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dhkang
08-03-04, 02:53 PM
Hi all.

Sorry for the super long message that WAS here. I shortened it.

I've got a VRX 300 full suspension mountain bike that I bought used about 3 years ago. <snip> I want a bike that I can use for exercise as well as some suburb commuting, and I don't know if this is the right bike. I'm a complete newbie <snip>. I recently bought thinner, non-knobby tires so that it'd be easier to ride on the roads. <snip> I am going to get my chain fixed - hopefully I can read up on it and do it myself.

<snip> What kind of bike would be better suited for commuting/exercising - I'm guessing something that doesn't have front shocks and preferably a bike made of steel so that the ride is a bit smoother. Are there any decent LSBs in the Chicago NW suburbs? <snip>

Thanks,
Dan

Chris L
08-03-04, 09:28 PM
Did you think of fixing the chain, then seeing how it rides with the new tyres? You may not need to go out and buy a new bike just yet.

If you are insistent on buying a new bike, what's your budget?
dhkang
08-03-04, 11:35 PM
Did you think of fixing the chain, then seeing how it rides with the new tyres? You may not need to go out and buy a new bike just yet.

If you are insistent on buying a new bike, what's your budget?

I am planning on fixing the chain - will probably pay the LSB $5 bucks to get it adjusted if I can't figure out how to do it myself. (note: I don't have any special chain-adjusting tools).

For a new bike, maybe around $300-400. I don't want to spend a lot and then not use it.

Smorgasbord
08-04-04, 12:14 AM
Are you open to the idea of purchasing a used bicycle?
dhkang
08-04-04, 06:21 AM
Yes, I wouldn't mind buying a used bike at all.
MichaelW
08-04-04, 11:37 AM
Check out the Kona Dew
http://www.konaworld.com/kw_index.cfm
It is a decent quality ridgid MTB, that is suited to fast, all-weather urban riding in rough conditions.
Light-touring or cyclo cross bike are good alternatives for a more road-oriented bike, but they start at a higher price band.
jeff williams
08-04-04, 12:32 PM
Find a mid 90's or later chromo mtb frame. Hopefully you can find one with a matched non suspension fork.
Most were removed from good bikes (fools!) and you need a matched fork.
Not too hard to get around 24 lbs bikes, need upgrades though.

If you can find a mechanic oriented bike shop, they should have older frames, bikes and may swap.

Your bike may be easier to sell than a bike that's better, and better for you.

http://www.firstflightbikes.com/atb.htm Lots of old bikes, get some information.

>jef.