gr33kbo1

https://fresno.craigslist.org/bik/3855766221.html

I really don't have much of a budget but this bike looks good enough for the price, and the poster did put up a lot of HQ pics. I really don't know what I'm supposed to be looking for, and this is also my first post, so hey...

Also looks to be a hybrid bike, correct me if I'm wrong. There's one of those Diet Dr. Pepper promo bikes floating around my city's craigslist for $30 so I was thinking of buying that too for ****s and giggles.

I'd really appreciate any help. I'm starting summer session in a couple days so I'm stressing out to find something in my price range.

Steve M.

Sure -- anything with wheels will work. I go to my train station on an 18-year-old mountain bike with a giant basket on the front. Makes up in utility what it lacks in dignity.

That said, you might look for something with eyelets that you can put a rack on, as you'll probably want to carry stuff. Also, shock absorbers are less than useless on roads, as they just eat up momentum. Looking at the Fresno CL, I'd consider these, depending on what size you are:

https://fresno.craigslist.org/bik/3844471738.html

https://fresno.craigslist.org/bik/3829199099.html

https://fresno.craigslist.org/bik/3813607328.html

https://fresno.craigslist.org/bik/3868723191.html

https://fresno.craigslist.org/bik/3844874830.html

https://fresno.craigslist.org/bik/3824569107.html

https://fresno.craigslist.org/bik/3844856025.html

Really, the key to a good commuter is that is gets you there, and you're not too upset to have it dinged up or -- worst case -- swiped. Bikes last forever. But my views are colored by my proximity to NYC. If I lived in Davis or Portland, I'd get something fancy.

Paramount1973 

I agree, the Cannondale would be a relatively poor choice for a commuter. A rigid frame mountain bike with rack and fender eyelets can make a great commuter with a good pair of slicks on it. I'm commuting on this and really like it.


P4170270 by galoot_loves_tools, on Flickr

groovedachshund

There are better options for $140, but not many that are easy to find. I spent more than two months looking for a good bike on craiglist before I finally just got a new one from BIKEISLAND cause I was tired of waiting. Just be sure that whatever you're getting FITS you. If you're not sure stop by the sports place at the mall next time you're there and sit on a few bikes (they will usually size you for free and try to sell you the latest $5000 bike).

catonec 

I like that nishiki
https://fresno.craigslist.org/bik/3829199099.html

cooker

How far is your commute, will you be carrying much, and will you go in all weather?