Originally Posted by
MichaelW
One upgrade to make is puncture-resistant tyres. The most common is Schwalbe Marathon, the best is Schwalbe Marathon Plus. They are not cheap but cyclists tend to get less leeway from bosses regarding late arrival than do their driving co-workers.
for 2.5 miles any tires will do. If one go for long distance - one needs have 15-20 min reserve to fix the tire. For 2.5 miles - you will just walk to work and fix your tire at lunch.
$70 wallmart bike will work. any old cruiser, old mountain , old hybrid will do. (i am doing each day 32 miles). If you buying bike that you can not return (not a wallmart one) make sure - it right size frame, and you can adjust saddle height.
Buy new helmet in wallmart, target etc - no more than $15 , if you need helmet - depends on your state laws and your road. Any rain jacket will do. You can use shower cap over helmet and plastic bag inside your shoes for heavy rain.
Keep your tire pump up and oil/clean chain at least once a month.
good luck.