Help choosing new bike
#1
Newbie
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Help choosing new bike
I have never purchased a bike but am planning on it. I currently ride a hand-me-down Mongoose mntbike. It is heavy, rusty and approx. 13 yrs old. I would like a bike for riding in the city (with some cobblestone/potholes/curbs). My wish list is: approx $500 price-range, as LIGHT as possible because I will have to carry the bike up stairs (I am petite and it gets very heavy), Women's Step Through, somewhat upright riding position, comfortable saddle.
I have access to many bikes shops/brands in the Balt/Wash area. I noticed that some brands didn't list the weight of their bikes.
Does anyone have any advice?
I have access to many bikes shops/brands in the Balt/Wash area. I noticed that some brands didn't list the weight of their bikes.
Does anyone have any advice?
#2
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Join Date: Jun 2014
Location: Northeast USA
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Bikes: 2007 Specialized Sirrus
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Does it have to be a step-through? Hybrid frames tend to resemble either road bikes (higher top tube) or mountain bikes (lower top tube that angles downward). Would a mountain-style frame be low enough for you? Part of the reason I ask is because if it is then you're open to a lot more models.
#3
DancesWithSUVs
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For your price range,you might want to check out the Mt Rainier co-op to see if they have any mixties. Lower end bikes are made with lower end components,which are heavier than the high end stuff,so a nicer used bike will prolly work better. Note,step-through frames are heavier than diamond frames,just something to keep in mind. Also,if you're going to be carrying it up stairs and keeping it inside,and want a low standover,then you might want to look into a folding bike.
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C'dale BBU('05 and '09)/Super Six/Hooligan8and 3,Kona Dew Deluxe,Novara Buzz/Safari,Surly Big Dummy,Marin Pt Reyes,Giant Defy 1,Schwinn DBX SuperSport,Dahon Speed Pro TT,Brompton S6L/S2E-X
C'dale BBU('05 and '09)/Super Six/Hooligan8and 3,Kona Dew Deluxe,Novara Buzz/Safari,Surly Big Dummy,Marin Pt Reyes,Giant Defy 1,Schwinn DBX SuperSport,Dahon Speed Pro TT,Brompton S6L/S2E-X
#7
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Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Los Angeles, CA
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Bikes: 2014 Fuji Absolute 1.7
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I was in your shoes until today. Just got a Fuji Absolute after a lot of hesitation. I really liked the Giant Escape as well, great value. None of the bikes in $400-$500 range I tested were any bad -- except I hated the GT.