Originally Posted by bikemig

That's a fair amount of rust on the chain. The bike has rust in a few other areas. When I see rust, I figure that there will likely be other issues with the bike as well. Still $50 isn't bad if the wheels are in good shape.

You're commuting, right? You got to figure new decent quality tires with any used bike you buy. Budget at least $50 for the tires and more like $60-$80 for quality tires like these schwalbe marathon greenguard tires

https://www.amazon.com/Schwalbe-Mara...447&th=1&psc=1

Originally Posted by zukahn1

For tires with these type rims you want to get nicer medium weight tires with a wire bead.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/SUNLITE-T...lk-Rd/32315328
https://www.amazon.com/panaracer-Pas...24&sr=8-8&th=1

Originally Posted by 3alarmer

...what does the era of construction have to do with it ? Maybe you would be happier with a new bike.



...many people with a wide range of mechanical skills, and life experiences, start threads here for advice. My reaction at this point to your questions is that maybe you would be happier with a new bike, or maybe taking the bus. While there are some tyres /tubes that are guaranteed not to flat, they slow you down considerably. Most people settle for a compromise of some flat protection in a commuter tyre, maybe even use some sort of internal sealant that will work to seal small punctures. But no flats is kind of a marketing myth.

When you start a thread asking if 50 bucks is a good price for a decent bike, then segue to a willingness to spend whatever it takes to get the best tyres that will never go flat, it indicates that maybe you won't be happy as a bike commuter. I would say you have some unrealistic expectations as a starting point, which is a recipe for disappointment. Bicycles are a marvelous means of transportation, but they are not without mechanical problems that arise as a mater of course. You can either learn to deal with them yourself, which is usually the cheapest solution.

Or you can pay someone at a shop. But those guys are not working for five bucks an hour any more. So, as already stated, 50 bucks is small change in terms of your startup cost investment.