winterbike

Hello,

I'm new to this forum and I have very little knowledge of bikes.
But, recently, I've decided that I want to commute to school!

I live in an area where bike thefts are common, so I thought it would be wise not to spend too much money on an expensive new bike
(my friend got her second bike stolen last month).
So I've been looking on Craigslist to find an affordable used bike, but as my knowledge of bikes is limited,
I did not know how to set my standards or what to look for.

My needs are specific to commuting (for now);
I will be riding about 13km everyday, home to school, to work, then back home.
The roads are all paved roads according to Google, and the way to school is a bit uphill (very little elevation, also according to Google),
but other than that, mostly flat.
We have very long and rigorous winter with a lot of snow and storm, here where I live,
so that's another factor that I consider to be very important.

I've actually found some bikes that are nice and affordable
(based on the brand, size and frame material that bikeforums members seem to recommend),
but I don't know what to look for in terms of wheels, brakes, gears, etc, or if they are even important at my stage.
There are a lot of you who can just look at a bike and tell if this bike is worth it or not.
I really envy you for that and obviously I cannot reach that level in just a day, but I would at least like to gain some knowledge.

What should I set as my priority? How do you recognize a quality bike?

Sorry for the trouble and I will forever love anyone who replies!

10 Wheels

Get something close to your size and start riding.

You will learn much and will know what to get for your second bike.

CrankyOne

I'd try to find something with internal brakes and either no gears or internal gears. A coaster brake and either single, 3, or 5 speed would work well. A front roller or drum brake wouldn't hurt but not necessary. Full fenders and ideally an enclosed chain case as well as a good rack. Derailleurs, external chain & brakes, and cables reduce reliability and add to maintenance. An enclosed chain is a lot easier to ride in regular shoes and clothes.

A heavy chain and lock will go a long way towards avoiding theft as will a bad spray paint job that makes it look like a worse and less attractive bike than it is (I've known people who've done this to brand new bikes to reduce theft).

More: City Bikes | LocalMile

jfowler85

1) Go to a bike shop

2) Find a bike you like, for whatever reason

3a) Buy it if it fits

3b) Note the make, model, style, size; purchase online

Boom shakalaka.

Phil_gretz

a "long and rigorous winter" sounds to me like you'll need to change tires once the snow and ice begin to accumulate. The better selection of studded tires are in 26" MTB sizes.

Why not find a steel, rigid forked MTB from the 1990s with cantilever brakes and plenty of clearance for larger tires? Maybe enough room to put fenders on it and mounts for a rear rack? These bikes are plentiful and not too expensive, in the <$200 range typically.

Start with road slicks (26 x 1.5") and then change over once the slush starts. You'll need good lights front and rear, and adequate clothing for the seasons. Budget for those, too.