I don't have that good of luck in thrift stores. I just bought an old hardtail mountain bike for $30 as a backup, but my stepson "stole" it. I bought my Specialize Hardrock in brand-new condition or $100 and I've commute hard on it or 3 years now. But I got it in a pawn shop, not a thrift store. My classic Fuji 10 speed was given to me, so that was a pretty good deal.

I buy gear in a thrift store. I love the Brooks Bros. cashmere sweater I bought many years ago for $3. I wore it for dressup for a while, then to work. Now it's a little ripped in one seam so I wear it as a base layer in cool and cold weather. It's light, warm, wicking and very soft on the skin. I also buy warmup pants and wear them over cycling shorts in cool weather. They don't last long, but at $3/pair they are practically disposable.