Originally Posted by Roody
Pawn shops have great deals on great bikes in the winter. They will knock 10-25% off the bikes because they take up a lot of room. Goodwill bikes suck.
Ask your friends and relatives. A lot of people have like-new bikes hanging in the garage that they will even give away. Or hang up a sign at work:
"I can provide a good home for your lonely old bike. Free and cheap considered first. I really need one!"
I commute daily on one of two thrift store bikes. One is converted to fixed gear. If you are patient and visit the thrift stores often, some gems show up. It's hit or miss though, so you need to make the rounds once a week.
Go on saturday afternoon so you can hopefully get first crack at new stuff dropped off that morning. Monday morning might even be better if you don't have to go to work.