topherrobin

Hey all,

I'm looking at two bikes on Craigslist. One's a Bianchi, it doesn't really have much description though the guy said it'll need work and needs tubes, and tires and some tlc. The other option is a Schwinn Continental II, or a Scwinn Le Tour https://washingtondc.craigslist.org/d...102193957.html




Any suggestions? I'm leaning toward the Bianchi but I've never worked on a bike before and just starting out. All your input will be appreciated, thanks!

brian3069

The Bianchi looks to need a lot of work. If you have to pay a shop, it will be very expensive. The Schwinn would be consider overpriced in most markets, maybe not in D.C. Electrical tape holding the brake cable on the Schwinn is a bad sign. I would pass on both.

BlueDevil63 

Assuming both bikes fit... neither. I think the Le Tour is overpriced and a mess. The Bianchi is old and also quite a mess. Lots of work that you probably aren't ready to take on. If the Schwinn ad posted indicates your budget I think you can do better.

topherrobin

Ok, thanks for all the input! Is Fuji a good brand and good price for these ones?

https://washingtondc.craigslist.org/n...102644218.html

https://washingtondc.craigslist.org/d...097963173.html

4Rings6Stars

Those bikes (and the others you posted) are extremely different sizes.

First thing you need to do is figure out roughly what size bike you need... Do some searching on that or post your height so we can give you a rough idea of what you should be looking for.

What's your budget?
What do you want the bike for?
Do you have the tools and ability (and desire) to work on it or do you need a bike tuned and ready to ride?

wrk101

+1,324,576 you have pretty much covered every size. Step 1: determine what size you need, then shop.

On any bike that is a project, unless you have the time, tools, aptitude, pile of parts, you will be upside down on a project.

Find a bike co-op, and they can provide tools and guidance, and often, parts too (at a reasonable cost).

topherrobin

Hey 4rings,

I'm 5'8" and I'm a bit flexible for the price. I think used I'd be open to spend up to $300, or brand new up to $1000 if the bike's really great and has all the accessories already. Fenders, racks....

I'm hoping to mainly use it for commuting around the city since I'm looking to get rid of my car soon. I live in DC so will need gears since parts of the city's hilly, and I live uphill. I don't have tools or anything yet, so definitely will have to learn about bike parts, maintenance, etc.


Thanks everyone for responding!!