Originally Posted by mrhedges

I would, if I were you walk into the local REI and casually stroll out the front door with the REI randonee in toe. REI has very lax security; actually they have no security you would probably be on the bike 10 blocks away before they would even notice. You can also get most of the gear you need this way too. Seriously though, look into used 520s and other such bikes there’s really no need to buy a new bike when there are so many great used bikes around that need love rather then supporting a fake co-op such as REI. It seems to me that with modernization we westerners have access to a great supply of high quality products that differ slightly in style and appearance either bike would serve you equally well. I suppose you’d rather have me dissect each aspect of the bike but personally REI grosses me out I would never spend money there and would much prefer to ride a bike that was either bought used from its former owner or bought from a local independent bike shop. Support local business work less live more that’s my motto. Actually, my motto is everything in moderation especially work.