I am on high school right now, and planning to buy a road bike to be able to go to school. My school is like 15 miles from my house.

Could you give me any tips on buying a good bike that lasts? Also, (if it is allowed in this forum) maybe suggest me some affordable online choices? If it matters, I live in Georgia.

Do you have a city in Georgia?
How tall are you?
Mechanical Aptitude?
Target Budget? $100, $300, $500, $800, $1000, $2000?

Where do you plan to store the bike when you get to school?

There are often some good deals on used bikes on Craigslist. But, a lot of bad deals too. I consider most bikes on Craigslist as needing a full tune-up, even if the seller has claimed that it has recently been tuned.

15 miles is a pretty decent commute, but certainly not impossible. Personally I would go with a drop bar road bike.

Don't over-spend. College campuses are notorious for thieves. Plus, if it gets a lot of rain, it will see some wear, and reasonably narrow tires (less than 28mm).

Many people will recommend checking out a few local bike shops. I would not go to a shop only to buy the same thing (or similar) elsewhere or online. But, you may make a good working relationship with a local shop.

BikesDirect has a lot of mediocre quality bikes, but decent prices, I think. Something to drool over.

Georgia the country or Georgia, USA? (It does make a difference.....)

If in the USA, i'd scour the craigslistings near/around where you live and find a high-quality used bike that fits you well.

If in Georgia the country, 1st - your English skills are good; 2nd - buy as good quality as you can in sizes where you can easily obtain replacement parts.

ETA:

I forgot bikesdirect as suggested by CliffordK - that's probably where you will find the best quality/price ratio.

I am 5'9",
I don't know my mechanical aptitude (never took a test, turns out I can't get a free test online, I don't even know what the test is about),
Budget would be only around $300 because I don't have a lot of money,

I am not sure where I could store it, but I might be able to talk to my school principal if he could let me bring my bike inside the building. I haven't seen anyone in my school commuting with a bike, and I haven't seen a single bike rack in our parking lots.

Also, bike stores near me are "Capitol Cycle Company," "Bike Tech," and "Cycle Bucks."

Georgia, USA.
Also, like CliffordK suggested, I might just get a bike from craigslist. Problem is, I don't have any idea which bikes are near-breaking point, and which bikes have common replacement parts.

(I hope I am allowed to post links here)

These are some of the bikes near me, that are on or below $300. Which one do you think is suitable for a beginner + would last at least a little bit long + has essential parts?

https://macon.craigslist.org/bik/5408435585.html $100
* https://macon.craigslist.org/bik/5422427467.html $195
https://macon.craigslist.org/bik/5433452640.html $200
https://macon.craigslist.org/bik/5385570550.html $300

*This one looks "complete" and ideal to me, but then again, I'm just a "newb" when it comes to biking.

I am a total beginner with bikes, I never had one as a child; I don't know how to ride one, even as a teenager. I'm sorry if this is a stupid question, but what are those adjustable things near the handle? Also, is riding a "mountain bike" on a smooth road bad?

Those bikes a very different sizes. Try to get some understanding on how fitting works, here's a fit calculator Bike Fit Calculator | Find Your Bike Size | Competitive Cyclist with an explanation of what each aspect of the fit affects sizing. I do like the looks of the Schwinn but it's a very small frame where the Fuji is considerably larger, the 2 aren't interchangeable. This is the difference between comfortable and miserable on the bike and why so many will tell you to go to a shop for your first bike.

For your commute, I would skip the MTBs. You can do it, but it won't be fun. They do, however, have the advantage of a bit more bombproof tires, but they still do wear.

And there are much better tires available for road bikes now than were available 20 years ago (don't go too cheap on your rubber).

As a teenager, you'll get used to riding just about anything. I'm not so big on the "perfect fit". But you still need to be close.

Does the Schwinn actually have 26" (650c) tires? If so, it is probably a bit too small for you. Anyway, you could ask the seller to verify the tire sizes, front and rear.

The Fuju just looks grungy. It will need at least a new chain. It is probably not a bad bike, but consider that it should be 100% disassembled, cleaned, and tuned.

There are bike co-ops that might help, or you could ask if there are bicycle maintenance classes at your school or local community college.

Let me toss a couple more into the mix.

How far is Marietta? This Victory is a pretty cheap, bottom quality bike. But, at $115, it would be worth considering as a starter bike. Don't consider it as a forever bike, but one to just get you to school and back.

Classics are a bit of a mixed blessing. This Girodana dates back to the early 90's, with an early set of Brifters, an 8 speed cassette. It has most of the early versions of all the modern advancements that I would start with. It is slightly above your stated budget. I'd encourage you to get good new tires, and a really good lock. But, the Giordana would take my vote! Has it been on Craigslist for a month? It could be gone. If it is still for sale, the seller might be willing to negotiate, and you can point out you're a school kid on a budget It might be slightly on the large side, but you'll be ok.

I don't know... ... 15 miles each way in Georgia? I wouldn't do it. I would ride 15 miles in NYC before I would ride 5 miles anywhere in the South. There is a reason you don't even have bike racks at your high school. I'm only half kidding. Do you know anyone who rides? Please, for the love of all that is Good and Holy, do not just get a bike and head out in traffic! Riding well is an art. It isn't rocket science, but not all of it comes naturally. Can you drive? Have you been taught how to drive? If not you don't have the necessary training to take a bike out in traffic unless you do it with some supervision at first. That I am serious about. Good luck.

This old school Trek 800 with solid fork will probably fit you. Good quality and the price is right. Asking $115 might take an even $100.
Ride it, of course, before buying. Take it in to your LBS for a comprehensive tune up and get better commuting tires. Something smoother, better rolling, flat resistant. Buy a helmet, ulock, water bottle, and cage(s). Versatile ride to get you into commuter cycling and not a theft magnet. Upgrade the components over time as you wear them out or have the funds.
https://macon.craigslist.org/bik/5391093663.html


My LBS has these Continental Country Plus tires for $30. Great mtn bike commuting tire for the $. I have them on 2 converted mtn bike rigs.
continental bicycle Country Plus


Really cool bike but may be too small for you. Vintage German touring bike:
https://atlanta.craigslist.org/nat/bik/5332408207.html

Same seller, unique bike for your area. This one may be too large. Ride them both to see if either fits ?
https://atlanta.craigslist.org/nat/bik/5332416872.html


And, there is a lot to be said about getting the best deal you can from your local LBS. Maybe even a used bike or shop rebuild.
You have their support, expertise, etc., and you are contributing to your own local economy in an area of interest to you….

Sorry, but could you please tell me why biking in the South a bad idea? (This is a genuine curious question and not a sarcastic question)

Also, I have been trained a little in driving, I know the rules, but I dont know how to drive in public streets yet. Although I have already driven around my subdivision.

The southern US (actually most of the US) is very car centric. Our homes, neighborhoods, subdivisions, retail centers, schools, communities, cities, and entire states are designed to be that way. The South also has a reputation as being rude and/or ignorant to cyclists. Oftentimes, cycling facilities (bike lanes, separate bike/ped/MUP) are nonexistent.

I have been commuting by bike since high school, through college, and my entire adult life. 45 years old now. I have 4 kids. One in high school, one in middle school, two in elementary. The oldest is our only girl. She is the one that has resisted commuting by bike. The other three gladly commute to school by bike on most days. That being said, there is much to learn and I didn't just turn any of them loose on our city streets to figure it out. We started commuting by bike to their pre-schools in bike trailers, recumbent tandems, tagalong tandems, etc., until first or second grade. We have a Bike Friday Triple Tandem that serves as our fast human powered school bus. They rode their own 20" geared bikes. We have two 24" commuter/full on touring bikes with solid components and front/rear racks. We have a 47cm Surly Long Haul Trucker w/ 26" wheels and a 17.5" converted Specialized Rock Hopper. The point is, they were all raised around bicycling, rules of the road, auto traffic sense, finding alternate routes, etc. This is key. Find routes through connecting low traffic volume streets. Use bike lanes, bike paths, and trails if you've got them. Pay attention, be safe.
My oldest son uses quieter neighborhood streets, granite paths, and trails through the creek to get under main arterial roads and the highway during the busy morning and afternoon commute. It is about 8.5 miles each way for him. He rides the Specialized, an old steel mtn bike that has been rebuilt for him. Continental tires, nice saddle, lights, lock, rack, etc. This bike serves him well over the mixed terrain on his 17 mile roundtrip commute.

I live in Austin, Tx. Auto traffic has become atrocious but we do have a long standing cycling culture, here. We recently received a gold status from LOBV as a bicycle friendly community, although I feel it is much less so than 20 years ago. We didn't have cycling facilities then, but traffic was much lighter and friendlier. I ride bikes and/or tour as much as possible, everywhere I go. Many places, particularly Colorado, west coast, Ohio, Pa, DC area, New York, etc. are much more bike friendly than Texas and in the south. That being said, we also ride in Houston, San Antonio, DFW, Memphis, Tn, and panhandle of Florida quite frequently. Ridden quite a bit in areas of the south where the cycling was nice. New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Memphis, Birmingham. Atlanta has several longer distance connecting bike path systems. Most of the south, however, not so much.

Use low speed roads, ride big, stay visible. Hook up with other bike commuters and cyclists via your local LBS and ride with them or get advice on your route and tips in general ?

you're getting some good advice on here. Being a first time buyer, (and seemingly a first time commuter) focus on some psychology, considering two important things that contrast. (1. Buy what appeals to you. If you don't like your bike, you won't ride it, no matter how much you spend. 2) Buy what you like as cheap as you can. If you decide commuting isn't right for you, you haven't wasted a lot of money. If you decide this is the life! as you ride the bike you like, you will start to learn what is important to YOU, and be able to consider that when you purchase your second bike that will be your best friend.

biking north, south, east, west - Yes there are friendlier cities to cyclists, but you'll be fine. Just follow the rules. Bikes have the same rules as cars, but always consider the fact that cars ALWAYS win. I've cycled on streets all around for many years, and had few to no problems. What I see most when problems arise, is when cyclist don't follow the rules: run lights and signs, use sidewalks, ride between cars at intersections instead of waiting in line, etc. Cars are not looking for you - stay in their sight, and don't do things that are unexpected while driving. When you do the things that cars can't do ( and you shouldn't be either) you piss the drivers off, and cars always win.

a used bike probably needs work, How much IDK? but it is your start on learning how to fix your own stuff ..

I did this in circa 1957..

2x15miles is a long commute and you will need a bike that is efficient, comfortable and practical.
I would look for a road-style or touring bike, but one with more tyre clearance, to accept 28mm tyres + fenders. Check availability locally of old style 27" wheel tyres and inner tubes; 700c is the current road wheel standard.
Make sure the frame has threaded eyelets to accept fenders, and preferably, a rear luggage rack. You will need to transport stuff and it is too far for a heavy backpack.
Budget for some accessories and kit:
Helmet, lights, lock, repair kit, rack, fenders. Consider some toe clips when you can ride safely.
On used bikes you may need to replace worn transmission (chain, rear sprockets, maybe front cogs) Check wear. You should fit some quality slick road/touring tyres with puncture protection: that or be late on a regular basis.
Clothing: wicking T shirt x3, bright windproof, bright waterproof (separate, even if it says breathable), cycling mittd (for crash protection). You may need cycling shorts, x3. Jeans have thick seams so consider hiking-style cargo pants.

You may be able to minimise startup costs with clothing, but it makes riding easier.

I would also suggest trying a mini bike tour with camping to help develop a lifetime love of cycling.
I have heard good things about the Silver Comet Trail. Some portions are remote and w/o water. Haven't ridden it myself.
Silver Comet Trail Georgia - Welcome
The Silver Comet Trail is located 13 miles northwest of Atlanta, Georgia. It's free of charge, and travels west through Cobb, Paulding, and Polk counties. This quiet, non-motorized, paved trail is for walkers, hikers, bicyclists, rollerbladers, horses, dog walkers, and is wheelchair accessible.
The Silver Comet Trail is 61.5 miles long, and starts at the Mavell Road Trailhead in Smyrna, Georgia. It ends at the Georgia/Alabama state line, near Cedartown and TheEsom Hill Trailhead.
At the Georgia/Alabama state line, the Silver Comet connects to the 33-mile long Chief Ladiga Trail. Plans are underway to extend the Chief Ladiga an additional 7 miles. Both the Silver Comet Trail and Chief Ladiga are fully paved rail-trails built on abandoned railroad lines. The combined Silver Comet and Chief Ladiga trail length is estimated to be 94.5 paved miles from Smyrna, Georgia to Anniston, Alabama.
Please remember to bring plenty to drink for you and your pet. Water fountains along the trail may not be working.
Silver Comet Trail Map | Silver Comet Trail Map
Silver Comet Trail Maps - Interactive, Google, Print, PDF, Hard Copy


Either way, have fun, ride smart, be safe !

wow, that's a long bike commute for high school. I had no idea Georgia was THAT rural. if I remember correctly there was a lot of socializing in HS and I would think bike commuting would prevent you from enjoying a lot of it and further alienate you from your classmates. I bike commuted to HS, I also walked and got a ride from friends with cars when I could when we all got older. (but it was only 1.5 miles walking according to google maps) I wish you luck with your choices. my kids recently both graduated and are in college now. one was very social, the other not so much. so either way I'm sure you'll be fine. but you know, having a car is a cool way to get a girlfriend ... (or boyfriend)

Visit a bike shop.

I wrote this article to help people new (or returning to) cycling:


Which bicycle to buy

virtualmonger- congrats on wanting to bike commute.

Some cautions are called for. Fifteen miles is a very long commute and especially for someone just learning to ride: if you don't adequately prepare it will be exhausting and dangerous.

Get a bike and ride it around your neighbourhood for a few weeks, including maybe a couple of weekend test rides to school

Read books on cycling in traffic like this one: ECWPress
or this one: https://www.amazon.com/Art-Cycling-Bi.../dp/0762743166

Scout out the safest routes.

Practise riding in a straight line, and doing shoulder checks without veering

etc.

I don't think you should start with a 15 mile ride. That is a long way. Particularly on the sorts of roads you find in the south. Can you start with short rides on slow streets.

First off, it's all about a good fit. I would also lurk around in C&V and their for sale sub forum - a lot of good bikes go though there, and if the seller says ready to ride, that's usually the case. You can get a really nice vintage for the 200 dollar range.

It's fine! I live in SC, and sometimes it feels like nobody cares about bicycle infrastructure, but the more people riding, the better things will get! Macon isn't exactly the free for all atlanta is. Savanah is also terrific on two wheels. If cycling in th south was so bad, there wouldn't be a tour of Georgia every year.

I don't know of any reason why riding in Georgia would be more dangerous than other places, but 15 miles each way every day is a challenge for someone starting out. If possible, I'd advise to start smaller and work up to it.

On the other hand it's not impossible.