Thank you to everyone for the suggestions. Craigslist is out for me. I just don't have the know how yet to deal with that sort of bike shopping. The recycle a bicycle sounds wonderful, I will definitely look into that. I'm in Brooklyn for the person who asked. To give a bit of background info, this is my first bike ever and I honestly always ride in the lowest gear. I generally don't like the fuss of switching gears, I don't feel a difference when I ride. Its all a struggle but the lowest gear helps me pedal without feeling like I'm going to totally faint. I feel like I should've just gotten a beach cruiser as my first bike (Imani is my first bike ever!) because I know my future bike will be the wabi se lightening. Single speed is all I need! In regards to the chain being lubed and such, I don't know. It was pre-assembled at the store and I just took it home from Kmart in July but I didn't actually start riding it until September so I'm not sure if that is the problem. The brakes are fine, I check those before every ride, the wheels turn smoothly but when I just get on and try to pedal, it is like I'm trying to move a mountain. I really want to continue riding in the winter but if I'm having trouble now in fine weather, I feel like I have to give up my first love until I get a decent bike. Which will be a while away because of bills and life and blah. I really love cycling and owning the road but it is difficult when I have to take a break every block because I'm exhausted. Thank you everyone for your help.