Originally Posted by mandmwest
I know nothing about bikes or cycling, have NO intention of getting into it seriously (already have a serious hobby), but would like to buy two bikes, one for myself and one for my wife.
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I have to keep it at about $100-$200 each.
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Mostly paved bike paths or hard packed bike trails, NO sand, off trail, extreame stuff. Basically, riding the established bike trials at the local lake, state park or wildlife area while photographing.
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1. comfort bikes, or hybrids with 700c wheels... don't forget helmet, spare tube, rear rack (for carrying gear)...
2. $200 each? you should buy used bikes, NOT new... you'll get a much better bike for your money...
3. sounds like nice trails... i see photographer couples riding comfort/hybrid bikes around here all the time - so i know what you're looking for in a bike...
4. please don't buy a box-mart bike... you'd no sooner buy your photography gear at a box-mart, right?
JMHO, YMMV
and good luck on finding your bikes! if you had a tad more money, i'd say buy a pair of hybrid Giants at your LBS...