Originally Posted by
SlimRider
The used option is included in option #1, so you really don't disagree.
However, I would strongly object to the OP spending too much over $250 for a bicycle that has a greater likelihood of being stolen than being ridden by its rightful owner...
Yes I really do. Your statement says:
"Your only options are as follows:
1) Monitor your local Craigslist for an old 80's styled 10 speed, or any other kind of chromoly steel framed bike with gears"
She can get many different kinds of used bikes for her $450 (HER stated budget for used) - an inexpensive used road bike or a hybrid that is a couple years old, a comfort bike. She isn't limited to an old 80's bike. I'm selling my '11 Trek Navigator 2.0 with only a couple hundred miles on it for $300. Perhaps you should have stated "SOME options are". Certainly a steel bike isn't her only option.
And unless you are her parent buying the bike it doesn't matter if you strongly object to what she wants to spend. It is her money and she's the one who has to like riding the bike she picks out.
OP, keep a watchful eye on CL if you want to buy used. Many decent and often not very old bikes do pop up. There are entry level hybrids that you could buy new within your budget, even from bike shops, but a used bike might be a little less enticing to would-be thieves. I'd stay away from Wallyworld bikes. And at 5'11" keep in mind you'll more than likely be needing a larger frame size, especially if buying WSD.