Originally Posted by
Schwinnhund
Wow! I must really be in the budget barn. I have 6 bikes, and only two were purchased new.
'93 Specialized Crossroads.....$199.00 ( add used Nordic Track trailer......$50.00 at a flea market)
'83 Schwinn Sidewinder.......$149.00
My used bikes are as follows:
'86 Cannondale Criterium $125.00 at a pawn shop in 2006
'85 Giant Rincon $25.00 at a flea market in 2001
'62 Schwinn Varsity $10.00 bought from a neighbor in 1966
'81 Torpado (all Campy) $50.00 at a flea market in 1989
If I ever had $350.00 to spend on a bike, I would be in heaven.......
Look for a good used bike. They are all over the place.
While it is certainly feasible to find some decent used bikes (if you are patient and know what you are looking for), things have changed in the used market in the past 5 years. There is a flourishing interest in vintage bikes at the moment, which is driving prices much higher than before. In fact, it seems there are many sellers fetching top dollar for marginal quality bikes (Schwinn varsities for $150+, that sort of thing).
Deals can still be found, but not nearly as easily as in the past.