Originally Posted by
LesterOfPuppets
The 80s Univega Super Sport I had was better than any 80s Cannondale road bike I rode.
There are a LOT of Univegas that are dogs, however. Post links for more detailed opinion on specific bikes.
I would say that the majority of Univegas are dogs, but for the OP's purpose, they may be OK. Univega was a brand-name of Western States Imports. The same people who put out Centurion, DiamondBack, Nishiki. They also own the Schwinn name as well.
For $250, you can find a VERY nice high-end bike in the used market. Something with Ultegra or Dura-ace can be had for that price at thrift-stores, garage-sales, want-ads on forums and even on consignment at local bike-shops. No need to look at department-store brands because those are in the range of $100-200 NEW. For $250 used, you're looking at a bike that was $800-1200 new.