Long time lurker, first time poster


Short Story: I'm looking for a cheap work commuter on a $200-300 budget to ride to a train station/gym daily (approx. 3 miles to train, then another 2 miles to gym). I would really like fenders/chainguard, a rear rack, some gears for Atlanta's hills, an upright(-ish) riding position. I may be asking too much.


Long story: I visited DC a while back and loved getting around on the bike share. Since then I've had the bug to ride, but alas no bike. My internet fantasy bike is a Paper Bicycle from Scotland. I don't want to order one without trying it out first, but as it turns out I'll be in the UK for new years and will have a chance to try one and make a decision to buy then.

Until then, I'd like to enjoy the coming fall weather for my commute (and save on some gas money too!) My thought is that riding anything helps me learn what I need/want better than riding nothing. Also, I'm looking for something good enough to last me through the first part of next year and then become my beater. I've tried Craigslist but haven't had much luck and really don't know enough to not get fleeced. The LBSs I've tried don't have much inventory that's used/cheap enough for what I'm willing to spend right now.

What should I be chasing:

• a BB Schwinn?
• an entry level Breezer (like this)?
• Or do I need to keep watching the used market (suggestions as to what to search for?)

Suggestions welcome, and thanks!