cool_cyclist

Good Evening-

I think this is the right section. Anyways, allow me to explain my predicament. I'm a teen in the market for a new bike. My current bike is a subpar Mongoose BMX from Walmart that is way to small for me. I'm looking for a 26" bike, preferably $300 or less. I've searched everywhere for a quality bike in that range and can't find one. I found some lovely ones (Raleigh Brand especially) at REI in my price range, but REI is five hours away from me. I figured as a last-ditch effort I'd seek help from the internet. Thanks! Any suggestions help!

Also, here's a little info you should know:

• Want to ride once a day or more, so durability is key.
• Mainly riding pavemnt/gravel, trails every once in a while. So hybrid is the ideal type.
• Price Range: $0-300 (a little flex room past $300)
• 26"

Jas556

Are you willing to buy used?

New I think you'd be looking at the Raleigh Talus', Giant Revel 3, and the Trek 820. You could probably talk a good price for New Old Stock.

cool_cyclist

All of those look & sound great. Quick question, are any of those brands for sale at a big box store? Went to local bike shop and everything was overpriced.

no1mad 

You won't find any of those brands at a big box store. You will find Schwinn, but the ones in the big box stores are not the same as the one at the Local Bike Shop(s) or LBS.

Also, that 26" size requirement of yours... if you are looking at big box bikes, that 26" refers to the wheel size. You go to a LBS, bikes are sized according to their frames and not the wheels.

NormanF

Marin Muirwoods 29er. Can be had for under $500 on eBay with free shipping. Under $400 with $30.00 shipping fee if you can win one for a modest bid.

You cannot find a double butted cromoly bike for less with the major brands.

FrenchFit 

If you are commited to 26" wheels, then:

Save Up to 60% Off Mountain Bikes - MTB - Motobecane 400HT

If you want to be more upright, use an adjustible stem or riser.