WiscoKate

Hi All,
I bike often to work (about 5 miles), but my hybrid just isn't cutting it anymore. I don't know much about bikes, so I'd really like some help on what I should be looking for. I'd like a decent road/commuter bike, used (vintage, if you will), and under $350. Call me a hipster if you want, but I really like the look of the older mixte or road bikes (see below for sample images). I'm 5'4 female living in Wisconsin. Any suggestions for brands, specific models, years, etc.??

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedi...ixte,_PX18.JPG
https://3.bp.blogspot.com/_FWwVJ0Vgh4...arne+Mixte.jpg
https://farm2.static.flickr.com/1025/...fbed676303.jpg

ill.clyde

Howdy neighbor (I'm in MKE) ...

Obviously the first suggestion is to watch Craiglist.

Why isn't the hybrid cutting it anymore? The answers to this can help drive the discussion.

Regarding older/vintage bikes ... I get it. I lust after some too, but realize they come with a price, and that price usually manifests in maintenance, either DIY or paying for it.

With older bikes you get older components. Sometimes they have lots of miles on them.

Will this only be used for commuting? Are you going to add miles to it on the weekends? That'll add wear and tear too.

Regardless, whatever bikes you look at, look over the frame carefully for cracks or other damage, check the shifting, check the brakes and spin the wheels to check for true before you buy. After you buy, take it to a reputable local shop for a tune up and another once over. Generally (my opinion, this could be wrong), but I'd look for road bikes from the 70s and 80s. Possibly even a rigid women's MTB from the 80s or 90s that you could convert maybe.

You've got lots of options in theory, but the trouble may be finding one in your size or budget.

anthonybkny

maybe save a bit more and get one of these?
https://www.linusbike.com/

anthonybkny

or maybe one of these will do?
https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/city_bikes.htm

WiscoKate

I have just never really liked my hybrid. It's bulky and pretty slow. I'd like a little more speed and lightweight bike. I've been reading a lot about mixtes and it seems like that would suit my needs. What is your thoughts on this type of bike? This will be used primarily commuting to work and running errands around the city. I imagine I wouldn't be putting more than 6 or so miles on it 5 days a week (during Wisconsin's decent weather). I am planning on keeping the hybrid for longer rides and the gravel bike trails.

I have been scouring craigslist, but I'm having a hard time determining what's a good type of bike/not getting ripped off by something I don't need, so any suggestions are helpful. Thanks!

WiscoKate

I would be open to a new bike. I just would like the price a little bit lower. I work in a college town and the number of bikes that get stolen is pretty high. I just don't want to be out $800-900 dollars thanks to a drunk college student. Do you think Linus is a good purchase for the price? I really like their Mixte 3 and was wondering if it would suit my needs.

ill.clyde

I'd post links but can't because CL is limited at work ...

However, on the MKE CL there is a "ladies ross comfort road bike" for $90 that I personally think looks fantastic, and the guy sounds reputable. It's not exotic by any stretch, but it looks like a nice bargain (plus at $90 you've got a lot leftover for a lock, other commuting needs and you're not out a fortune if it got stolen). Just might be a little tall for you, I'm not sure

There's also a "Raleigh C30 ladies hybrid bike" for $95 that might warrant a look. Appears to be newer with a somewhat vintage feel.

There's a "1970's Schwinn suburban" for $80 ... mixte, very vintage looking, has a rear rack. Might be worth checking out.

Hope that helps, sorry I can't post the actual links for you

ThermionicScott 

Mixtes are cool, but moreso than other bike types, it seems like your choices are limited to lower-tier bikes from the 70s/80s, or new bikes that are upward of $1000 when all is said and done. Here's one of the former that my gf and I scored and converted to a drop-bar roadie with indexed shifting:



Since this picture was taken, we've replaced the wheels, and the new aluminum rims are much more to her liking.

CommuteCommando

Sounds like you don't need my help. You have a definite taste in bikes. Not mine, but whatever turns yer crank. Those are all nice bikes. I've only been to WI once, Milwaukee to Oshkosh, and it did not seem super hilly. Just consider whether you want drop, straight, or riser bars. All mine are all straight or drop, get what feels right for you.

exile

My suggestion is to keep looking at craigslist and also see if there is a LBS that sell used or even a co-op. Also, ride as many bikes as you can so you get one that fits and you like.

While theft is always a concern, you should be able to lessen your fears by knowing how to lock your bike up correctly. In my experience a lot of people do not know how to lock up their bike. They use a cheap lock and will attach it to something unsecure (if they do lock it).

Have you thought about modifying your hybrid (changing tires, saddle, etc.) to make it mores useful and comfortable?

rms13

I don't think of a mixte as being particularly fast or light weight

gna

None of those are mixtes, and I wouldn't call the Schwinn light.

This might be closer. Or this.

gregjones

Wrong side of state for hills.

I love Wisconsin. If it weren't for the GA Peach that I married, I'd be there. She just refuses to live in a county that has an official snowmobile map.