What size bike do you need? My son's Specialized Hardrock needs a new home. It was his middle school bike (but he's a tall kid). Because it has been neglected and has seen some weather it's going to be cheap. Alternatively I have a 2002 Gary Fisher Solstice extra large for somewhat more money. I'm in Santa Rosa.

I've watched the SF Bay area Craig's list extensively and I would say that it is almost completely dominated by a very active flipper community who know exactly what they are doing. I would say your only hope for a straight across bargain is garage sales, and a chance for a good bike at a reasonable price would be the bike shops.