Originally Posted by
Supernose
I can definitely get the feeling of just being outside. I get that way when riding a motorcycle. There are a plethora of reasons I want to get into biking, and I've got a feeling nothing is going to stop me, except maybe the price of everything. The wife is pregnant, and being in the military, our pay isn't exactly great, so money is tight. Spending 300+ on a bike right now just isn't going to happen. Maybe later down the road, but not right now. I've been told by experienced bikers that I work with to stay away from places like Walmart and Target for bikes, but I know bikes there are cheap, and I'm pretty sure I can upgrade them with things I'll need. Also, this will be my first commuter, so spending a bunch of money when I'm just starting out doesn't seem like a good idea in my mind.
I do appreciate the advice, I'm going through the Newbie Thread right now, and getting some good info.
Just be patient with CL, then. $500 isn't a lot of money for a bike, but if you don't have it, you don't have it. Find what works best for you, though I do recommend a trip to the LBS. Sometimes they have sales, or used bikes for sale that have been looked over by a bike mechanic. If nothing else, you can try a few on and get sized for a bike so you know what to look for on CL. Might be a bit dirty to the LBS, but make it up to them by buying accessories and stuff later.