Originally Posted by
MRT2
Under $200 pretty much means used, as $200 doesn't get you anything decent, and you pretty much have to go up to at least $400 for a new, entry level bike, at least if you pay retail. Or, buy online, which can be a crapshoot if you don't know what you are doing.
I wouldn't worry too much about wheel size. 26" wheels was a standard for mountain bikes for a long time, and you can still find replacement tires, tubes and wheels in this size. 700c is the standard for most road bikes and hybrids. 27.5" or 650b is a size that is getting more popular, and falls somewhere between 26" and 700c.
As for the style of bike, look for a bike without suspension. Could be an older hybrid or mountain bike. Stick with models that were decent bikes when new. Trek, Specialized, Bianchi, Giant, Cannondale, Kona, Raleigh, and Jamis are a few examples. Not an exhaustive list. Schwinn and Diamondback had some very fine products, and others that were cheap department store bikes, so learn the difference. Stay away from Magna, Roadmaster, and Mongoose. These bikes pretty much suck, and have sucked for a long time.
Thanks all for these tips.. very useful, especially on brands and types.. just trying to get my info back on track as its been awhile since i've looked into used/new.
I guess no matter what she prefers a bike where the grips are at least 2" higher than the seat.. nothing leaning way forward on a straight bar thats for sure..
You mention above to avoid mongoose though.. curious what is wrong with these in general.. as ironically i found one in prime shape on CL nearby here that looks solid/new.. the person says they have new tires (hybrid tires) and a new seat too.. $80.. i think its classified as a "comfort bike", though i've seen hybrids with the same positioning (still unsure what makes a hybrid hybrid vs comfort).. handlebar grips on this one around 4" above the seat (i dont think it will let me post the link yet to show).. Her existing bike (mine from 1990 with 18" frame) sits about 2" higher than the seat, the grips)
The model is "Men's 26" Mongoose Pro Comfort/Mountain Bike".. I could probably get it for $60 so it seems a steal. (the # that can be found via google is 6561429536).
My only concern for her on having yet higher up grips/sitting more straight, is the affect that has on a longer 10-20 mile ride.. i would think leaning forward more would actually be less stress on the back in the longer ride? Maybe not, we only avg like 9 mph i think.