I don't know how true that is. (Sorry, I'm sure this discussion has been had a few dozen times) Maybe for the first few months it's true. I see Free Spirits on the road that are 30 years old (not time capsule bikes either) in MUCH better shape than 3 or 4 year old Magnas and Schwinns. I think those heavy old steel wheel department store bikes leave a lot to be desired, but are good cheap transportation and make nice city bikes. I would advise anybody to buy a $100 Free Spirit (pending condition) over a brand new $100 Schwinn at XMart any day of the week.