Bike Forums - View Single Post - Buying used bikes for commuting

08-04-14 | 02:58 PM

#17

AngeloDolce

Full Member

Joined: May 2008

Posts: 342

Likes: 9

From: Delaware

Bikes: Many English 3 Speeds

Quote:

Originally Posted by flyin9monkie

Thanks for the suggestion guys. I actually went on bikes direct and saw some promo deals selling bike on discount.

Save Up to 60% Off Comfort Bikes | Bike Path Bikes | Windsor Dover 1 from bikesdirect.com
Save Up to 60% Off Comfort Bikes | Bike Path Bikes | Windsor Dover 1 from bikesdirect.com
Save Up to 60% Off GT Traffic Bikes, Hybrid bikes, Multi-speed Comfort and Hybrid bikes

I honestly just went on there and looked at the cheapest price available that also looks decent. Based on how I said I would use the bike, do you guys think any one of these bikes would be a good deal for their price; their discounted price, not their whopping sales price before the discount (I'm in the advertising business so I care little about the big number before the discount).

Another thing that bothers me is that they don't really have my size; I'm 5'5" with about 29" inseam. What's the difference between men's bike and ladies bike other than the slanted top tube? Would it be bad if I order the ladies version if it fits my size?

Thanks

I wouldn't hesitate to buy a ladies bike if the size fits you better. A few people may (or may not) give you a hard time but a bike that's too big is not good.

For gearing, the rear sprocket on the single speed may be a little small (higher gear), but it sounds like you may prefer this, especially if you don't have many hills or long rides.

US measure is gear inches = 46teeth front / 16 teeth back x wheel size 27" (close to 700C) = 77.6 inches
What gears are you using on the folding bicycle? What is the wheel size?

The singe speed/3 speeds I normally ride typically have a gear that's a little lower, 26 inch wheels with 17-18 tooth sprockets, for gears of 66-70 inches, but I often ride longer distances and may have hills.

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