I am thinking of making this my commuter bike this summer. I have a ten-to-twelve-mile round trip commute through hilly San Diego terrain and thought that for a $199.99 Target bike this could be good. I understand that a boxed bike could need some work, but there's probably not gonna be anything too bad if I don't let those Target assemblers get their hands on it. On the other hand, I don't want to spend my hard-earned money on another NIB clunker (Firmstrong Comfort...WHY?) What do you think?

Some impressive-sounding specs:
Features:
* Lightweight, double-butted, aluminum frame
* Rigid fork and seat post prevent bobbing, providing a faster ride
* 21 speed SRAM drivetrain provides smooth power
* SR Suntour crankset, Shimano cassette and KMC chain provide reliability
* WTB Speed V Sport saddle for durability and all day comfort
* 14G Rustproof Stainless Steel Spokes
* Adjustable handlebars and stem for optimum comfort
* 17" frame / Stand-over height 29.3"/ Fits most riders 5'5" to 5'9"

Frameset:
Size: 17" FRAME/ STAND-OVER 29.3"
Color: SLATE BLUE
Frame: 6061 ALUMINUM WITH RACK AND FENDER MOUNTS
Fork: RIGID CRHOMOLY STEER TUBE & LEG

Wheels:
Rims: ALLOY 36H 700CX36H
Hubs: JOYTECH 36H ALLOY
Spokes: 14G STAINLESS STEEL
Tires: KENDA K125 700X32C

Drivetrain:
Speed: 21
Shifters: SRAM 3.0
Front Derailleur: SRAM 3.0
Rear Derailleur: SRAM 3.0
Crankset: SR SUNTOUR CW7-XCC
Bottom Bracket: VP SEALED CARTRIDGE
Cassete: SHIMANO MF-TZ37
Chain: KMC Z51
Pedals: ALLOY PLATFORM

Components:
Saddle: WTB SPEED V SPORT
Seat Post: ALLOY 30.8X350MM WITH QUICK RELEASE
Handlebar: HL 154 600MM 15D 40MM RISE
Stem: ALLOY ADJUST
Grips: VELO VLG
Brake Set: TEKTRO ALLOY LINEAR-PULL
Extras: CLEAR COAT PAINT FINISH, CATEYE REFLECTOR SET, TWO WATER BOTTLE MOUNTS, STORAGE RACK & FENDER MOUNTS AND OWNERS MANUAL

https://www.forgebikes.com/mstreetblu.asp

You'd be better off, in my humble opinion, saving another $150 and going to your local Performance shop to see what they have. Think of maintenance and service after you buy the bike. Target will not provide any level of quality service, if any.

i brought my $270 forge brevia into a giant bike shop and he told me my components compared to their bikes a twice the price! i have 6 bikes and i seem to enjoy it the most! have had bikes all my life, highly recommend it!

It doesn't look half bad; have you seen it in person? If it is lightweight, as they claim, and rides well, you could upgrade it as things wear out/fall off. If not, for $200, sell it on CL and buy a better bike, having had a learning experience.