I'm a newbie. Haven't ridden a bike in over 9 years. Well, now that I live less than 25 miles from work and gas prices are soaring where I live, I decided to buy a bike and commute to work. I also bought it to run errands around town and to get back in shape. I also wanted a new hobby. (Plus there's this little thing called "fun" as well)

Not knowing anything, I started doing a lot of research. First thing off, I cruised many of the bike forums and info sites to see what had changed in the last decade. Good God, was I out of the loop! I also brushed up on the basic lingo and technology.

Then I asked the bike snob at work what was a good bike for a beginner. I listened intently to every word he said. This gave me wonderful insight into what is considered "cutting edge" in the bike world. But I also knew this was far beyond what I needed at the time. And it's really easy to spot a snob of any kind. So instead of falling into that expensive "oneupsmanship" game they play, continued with my research.

Next, I did a total 180 and visited Wal-Mart and took a look at the bikes they had. I hate Wal-Mart with a passion, but sometimes you just can't beat their sales. The bikes didn't look all that bad at first glance, but something just didn't sit well with me. Maybe it was the way they made a grown man wade through a sea of action figures and Barbie dolls to just look at a bicycle that turned me off? I dunno.

Finally, I stopped off at my LBS. The counter guy was VERY helpful and attentive, (slow day + he was probably paid on commision), and showed me every type of bike on God's green earth. Then I told him I just needed an all purpose hybrid for commuting, running errands, etc. That's when he showed me some of last years models they had on sale. he of course tried to steer me towards the most expensive, which I totally took under consideration. I ended up getting a 2002 Fuji Supreme for $160. I also bought about $100 in extras, ( rear rack, trunk bag, lock, junk like that) so as to not make the guy feel too bad.

This all transpired in less than three days. I love my bike! I ride to work every day. I save about $100 in gas a month. And I feel more in shape now as well.

If people just did a little research and went out and made an informed purchase, instead of just rushing out and making an instant gratification purchase, I think more people would be happier with their bikes. Maybe a Wal-Mart bike is all what most people need. Then again, if people just did a little bit of looking around, they could find a better deal for about the same price. I dunno.

Sory for the rant.