walrus1

Hey all,

I'm not sure if I should put this here or in road biking but since it's about a bike I use to commute I'll post here. The time has come for me to upgrade from my '81 Schwinn solid steel road bike. I've been using it as a commuter bike and for exploring NYC. There are a few things wrong with it the front fork is bent the rear axle is partially stripped and the saddle is falling apart but mostly I'm sick of how heavy it is! So I definitely want a new bike but I have requirements and I need to if there do able with my budget.

So here are my requirements:
1. It must be a road bike
2. It must be at least a 8 speed bike
3. It must have one or preferably 2 built in water holder mounts
4. It must be made out of aluminum or anything lighter than steel
5. It must not come from Craigslist. I'm sick of seeing obviously stolen bikes on CL and I don't want to worry about my new and beloved bike being stolen from it former owner.
6. The front wheel must be a quick release
7. I'd prefer a bike that is about 5 years old or newer
8. It must have integrated brake shifters

Things I'd like for it to have:
1. I'd prefer if it didn't have cyclocross brake levers but if it does no biggy
2. I'm going back and forth about fenders
3. I'd prefer if it came from a local bike shop (LBS)
4. I'd prefer it if the seat wasn't quick release.

My budget is between $400-700. I'm considering keeping my old bike and using it as a foul weather commuter and an errand bike since it has a cargo rack. In which case I'd forgo the fenders on the new one. Can I find a bike that meets my requirements that's within my budget? Thanks in advance for your replies!

Djnet65

Something like this?

https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/...irage_tour.htm

I'm not sure what you mean by Cyclocross brakes? I'm guessing disc brakes.

walrus1

Something like that but I'd prefer drop bars. Cyclocross brakes are actually a type of brake lever that is on the straight portion of drop handlebars. Their also known as interrupter levers. https://sheldonbrown.com/images/interrupter-levers.jpg

bikemig 

I'd go talk to your LBS with your requirements and work with someone at a shop.

walrus1

bikemig do you think it's likely that I can find a bike that meets my requirements with in my price range?

Phil_gretz

Would you describe and post a photo of your 1981 Schwinn? Something tells me that your ideal bike might be right there. No reason why you couldn't upgrade to 8-speed indexed, Brooks saddle, and the works for half of your budget...

Andy_K 

It's definitely possible to find something in your budget that meets your requirements. For new bikes, something like the KHS Filte 223 or Jamis Ventura Sport might work for you. You'd get more value and probably a lighter bike by buying used. Look for a bike co-op in your area and see what they have.

fietsbob

no purpose in brand touting if the OP wont find a dealer to sell them .. where they live.

Recommended sequence 1) find a dealer you like , 2) select a bike they carry .. that meets part of your needs ,
change small trifles that you dont see on it as it came.

accessories are always extra, but if you get them at point of sale with the bike .. they will be discounted a bit.

bikes need maintenance.. are you savvy on All aspects of DIY? and willing to buy tools?

Bikes Direct require more things you do yourself, ... though you, per task, can pay a local shop to help you.

Ebubar

This might be a good option, though with taxes its about 30-50 over budget (depending on where you live): https://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/...5/14807/66177/

It's what i'm looking at getting. 8 speed cassette, compact double, integrated brifters. 2014 Shimano Claris shifters which, from what I can tell, should a fine choice for commuting and fun riding purposes. The Defy range of bikes all come with mounts for fenders and racks and can take up to a 28 in wheel size.

rms13

For a bike with drop bars, the top end of your budget will get you a bike with entry level components at an LBS

gregjones

I think that you would be hard pressed to find a road bike less than five years old that DID NOT have more than eight speeds, have bosses for two bottle cages or have a quick release front wheel.

"aluminum or anything lighter than steel" is not a dog to fight here.

Craigslist is at your discretion. Ignore the obviously stolen bikes and check out the value priced second-hand options that are there.

gerv 

Yes... for the enormous value of a well-fitted bike with good maintenance support... yes... find an LBS.

justme23

Check out your lbs's and ask about last year models their suppliers have available that fit your needs.

HillRiderEast

Take a nice country ride to Amherst Ma and check out the bike exchange - lots of options for you - see list of what they have available.

https://www.hampshirebicycleexchange.com/used-bikes

Thrasymachus

Thumb shifters are something for hybrids and mountain bikes, and shouldn't really be found on road bikes. I have no idea why you have that weirdo stipulation. You may also want at least an eyelet for a rear rack if you are gonna be commuting, because commuting or riding around in summer with a backpack is no fun. Also all aluminum would be harsh on the NYC potholes if you gonna be lots of riding it will take its toll, you will want at least a carbon fork, or an all steel bike.

However $400-700 can only get a VERY LOW END new road bike. Used, you could get much more, but if you are not mechanically competent or knowledgeable, it is wiser to pay more and get a new bike for a local bike store.

walrus1

Hey all,

Thanks for all the replies!

I live in Brooklyn close to Manhattan so finding a LBS won't be a problem. Finding one with a good mechanic however is another bag of tricks. I have a mechanic that I love but he doesn't sell any bikes. But I'm sure I can find one who does no sweat.

I think I messed up my terms here what I'm after in terms of shifters aren't thumb shifters but integrated shifters.

I want to talk about for a second why I no longer want to use a steel bike as a daily commuter. I'm sick of carrying it up and down the stairs granted it's only a single story walk up but my next apartment might be a four story you never know. This is especially true after long rides when I'm just wiped out it's a serious pain. I feel like performance wise I've hit a wall with it. My speed isn't improving and hills and ramps on bridges still wipe me out. I once went on a bike ride with a friend and we switched bikes then we switched back about a mile later. He said my bike was just too heavy for him. I really don't want to use a heavy steel bike on a daily basis anymore. I realize an aluminum bike won't last as long as steel but is it unreasonable to expect to get 10 years out of one? IS there such a thing a sn affordable lightweight steel frame? I'm under the impression that all steel bikes are as heavy as mine. I think one of the earliest lessons I learned when I started biking was how to avoid potholes it was right behind taxis will run you the &$#@ over regardless of who has the right of way.

I have some idea of how to do basic maintenance. I can fix flats, adjust the derailleurs and brakes as well as adjust cable tension. The idea of buying a bike online scares me! What if I mess something up? I think y'all are right about the using a local shop.

I'm surprised that I can afford a NEW road bike! I thought they costed at least a grand! This is certainly an avenue I should explore. I'm now hopeful that I might get a used road bike for $400-$600 and have enough left over for some cool accessories.

Greg, you'd be surprised how many hipsters buy single speed or fixed speed bikes. When I bought my first bike last year I had to tell a couple shops repeatedly that I wasn't interested in that non-sens. Their even making high end single gear road bikes now! Fixies are the best things since fedoras don't ya know?

Thanks for the helpful replies everyone!