Hey there everyone!

Im new here. I need some help getting a bike. I had one when I was like 10 now im 20 and would like to get one again.

I was looking around the stores and am completely lost. I have one that I was looking at that seemed nice but know that this would be the place to come and make sure.

A little background info.

Im 20, around 6'2, weigh around 250 and was going to use the bike as a leisure activity. ( And hopefully loose some weight ) I would be using it on the sidewalks and a couple of paved trails near me that have been set up over the years.

I was looking at the Columbia Northway FE. Its the 18 inch one with the larger seat. It has 26 inch wheels. It seems like a nice bike but im not 100% sure. I was going to get it at Sports Authority for 279.99 plus tax. ( Unless anyone else knows a better place! )

Is this a good bike? Is this a good bike for what I'm looking to do? Etc?

I hope that I posted this in the right place and appreciate any help!

Thanks!

Eatsleepdrivesc

I think a hybrid bike would fit you nicely, you should look into the Trek FX series.

https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/story/fx/

That looks like a nice bike but I was hoping to stay within the 300$ range tops. I hope this helps!

Thanks!

Visit several bicycle shops in your area. You should find lots of REAL bikes (interpreted as QUALITY bikes) in the under $300 price range to test ride.

We sell Raleigh and Jamis bikes at the shop I work at. Both make several quality bikes in the under $300 price range.

Yea the trek is kind of expensive but luckily for me I was able to get my 7.1 fx for $375 new at my local LBS.

lbs?

lbs = local bike shop

Check the following:
1) craigslist.org (city near you, bikes) - might find a nice one there someone has grown tired of... or post your local city and some of us will search the craigslist bikes for you, oh yummy
2) thrift stores - many times these have bikes in need of repair (if you're mechanically inclined and find a good one, you'll be happier this route because you'll know how to work on it)
3) LBS - visit your local bike stores (avoid walmart - and I think sports authority qualifies as a walmart) that specifically deals in bikes only, if you're lucky you'll find an older bicycle shop with some quality vintage bikes - by their very definition, a vintage bike has proven it can stand the test of time

I'd agree a hybrid style would probalby be best for you. I happened upon a deal on a bike on Craigslist that had the components I wanted and price point I needed. Was able to test ride it etc. Like others have stated the key thing is fit though so you have to keep looking and test riding them. Although I prefer to purchase from my lbs I'd rather get something used with the components I want if I am on a tight budget.

So I checked out craigslist and found a Motobecane for $50, was told it was around 20 years old and from ground to seatpost 29 to 29-1/2 inches... going to go look at it tomorrow (and bring it home). I've never gone to look and "not" brought one home.

Going to try to pass it off like it's for my nephew so my wife doesn't kill me... irregardless of what my wife says I don't have a bicycle problem, I have a storage problem (not enough room for more, but I'll find room somewhere).

Hey guys I have another question.

How many inches should the bike be? Im 6-2.



Thanks

Someone else correct me:
Your inseam is more important than your overall height (length from bottom of foot to the top of a book placed in your crotch. That I believe is called your stand over height.

Secondary to that is the top tube length (but also very important).

Google

Here's a good link.

You mentioned riding on sidewalks. In some places, this is not permitted.

I just got a Trek 7000 for $350 if you can stretch that far. I love my bike.

I just find this 15% to 20% off select Novarra bicycles, many are in your budget. i have ordered a Novara Men's Buzz V Bike.