I've had great luck picking up bikes at Goodwill. Sometimes the better bikes are cheaper because they look older or have a few more scrapes. The Takara I just bought is basically brand new, and for $9.99. The tires are even perfect. Needs zero work to ride anywhere tomorrow. Probably hung in someone's garage for 25yrs.

You can also just ask around. The Jeunet I have a guy gave me after I put a "wanted" note on the company swap sheet. Was hanging in his garage, and he wanted it gone.

Pat