Originally Posted by PDKL45
You need a $150 used large-size beater that you can lock outside.
There are some: URL
Originally Posted by
Barabaika
It will be difficult to find a decent folder at $300 US. If you go higher in budget you could look at something like an Ori folding bike, which would be fine to keep in a car boot (trunk) or folded in your house. They are also good for multi mode commuting as they fold for buses and trains.
Otherwise, get a beater and store it outside like someone else suggested.
Thank you both for the input. Yeah - a real cheap beater as a starter bike that can be stored outside does seem to check all the boxes. The only problem I have is that there are no bike racks or parking meters (any fixed objects, really) outside my building where I can keep it. I have to walk around and check out some other streets in the area, but if I have to keep it locked up far away but still out on the street is it really worth it?