Recreational & Family - Bike advice

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saga
04-12-05, 02:06 PM
I'm just starting to look for a new bike. My youngest child is now up on two wheels, and I can see that family bike outings are not far behind. The Schwinn Traveler that I bought used for $50 a quarter century ago needs more work than its worth. I want a decent bike for general riding--paved and unpaved. I'm not looking to go up and down rock faces, through boulder gardens, etc. I haven't shopped for a bike since I bought the Schwinn and have no idea where to start. I'm not looking to spend much $ but want to avoid the junk. I'd appreciate any advice on make/model and what I can realistically expect to spend. Thanks.

Grasschopper
04-12-05, 03:10 PM
Well I would look for something from the big names, Giant, Trek, Specialized etc. and be ready to spend roughly $500 give or take. That will get you a quality low end bike that if properly cared for will last a good while and be safe. Here are a few thoughts:

http://www.giant-bicycle.com/us/030.000.000/030.000.000.asp?model=11031
http://www2.trekbikes.com/Bikes/City_Bike_Path/Hybrid/FX/7300_FX/index.php
http://www2.trekbikes.com/Bikes/City_Bike_Path/Hybrid/FX/7200_FX/index.php
http://www.specialized.com/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=9354
http://www.bianchiusa.com/601.html

There are other choices out there and the internet can save you some money up front but a good relationship with a LBS IMO is beneficial in the long run.
daroga
04-12-05, 03:14 PM
I just got a Trek 820 (http://www.trekbikes.com/bikes/2004/mountain/820.jsp) from my local bike store. The bike was on sale for $220, but has an MSRP of $250. It's a great entry level bike. It sounds like you have similar needs to what I had, just a simple, no thrilly, but quality machine to get me from point A to point B with some comfort. Obviosuly I've not had it that long nor have I had nearly the amount of experience that most here have, but I'm very happy with my purchase (and this from the guy who wavered between the $53 and the $67 bike at Target because $67 just seemed like a lot of money... you get what you pay for.)

Just my thoughts,
Tim