jjermzz

Hey guys I'm am going to start biking. My girlfriend hates the thought because she sees a cash outflow. Or because Its not typical or for a 26 year old, 5 foot 6 inch, 190 pound hispanic riding a bicycle through a city, who the only guys seen on bikes are crackheads looking for crack.

But she doesn't see that life sucks if your not in a club or bar drinking, doing drugs with friends, sleeping around, living a double life, or starting a revolution. I need something to do. Now I know why REI has expensive tents and kayaks. Life needs to be active. I thought of doing overnight hiking but I can only do that on the weekends. So biking it is.

When took up snowboarding last winter and she came up with the same thing why, you don't even snowboard. I was like I'll learn.

Hopefully I'll get a bike by the end of the month.

jjermzz

I been to one LBS and was recommended a Specialized TriCross. My plans are riding to school 13 mile trip. And maybe ride to the beach on the weekends, a 26 mile trip. I need another bike to compare. I was at REI but the guys ignored me. I admit I don't fit in the biker category stereotype, if one exist, but I didn't even get the "can I help you" B.S. but whatever.

any recommendation are welcomed. BTW I've been lurking on this site for two weeks now.

catonec 

Are you familiar w/ bicycle mechanics or atleast mechanically inclined. if not thats ok, thats what your local bike shop is for. If you are comfortable turning your own wrenches then your most cost effective solution will be buying a used bike on either craigslist, ebay, or a garage sale. these are great ways to get started without dropping the big cash, especially if your not sure that your gonna stick w/it.
If you insist on new then bikesdirect is a very viable option for minimal cash.
a few things you should consider, what type of bike do you want, mountian? road? cross? hybrid?....
next important factor is how much do you want to spend?
third, what size bike frame fits you. you can check some online guides to get in the ballpark, or you can try some on for size at your lbs. 5'6 Id guess 52cm.

dont forget to save alittle cash for a helmet, bikebag, tools, pump, padded bike shorts, waterbottle, lock, pedals and shoes (if you decide to ride clipless)
It may seem overwhelming at first but once to dive in, youll catch on quickly. goodluck and welcome