Hey guys, so I'm trying to get into cycling, again. A couple years ago I got the tour bug, watched it every morning on oln and then went out for a couple of hours riding. I was only like 16 so I bought then discovery jersey and everything. I started on an old Peugeot Marseille and then got a deal at the LBS on a new Specialized Allez Sport Triple. It was great. Then the tour ended, stopped riding, sold the bike(s). Now a couple years later I'm laid off and trying to fill all my spare time with riding, but I need a bike and don't have more than $50 to get going. Anyone else ever been in this position? Any advice? Ideas for getting a bike? Been watching craigslist and going to look at an old Columbia tomorrow for $25.

From a moral stand point, where do you stand on stealing?

I'd hit yard sales and check any Goodwill/St. Vinny/Salvation Army stores you may have near you. Maybe even a church sale. Some place where they are likely to undervalue. Anything worth buying on craigslist for less than $100 is gone in seconds where I live. Also, see if there is a bike co-op near you and ask around. College campus kiosks are also good for people desparate for cash. And be ready to buy on the spot. Not "well I'll be back, can you hold it?" Cold cash upfront can often pry away bargains that otherwise wouldn't be had.

Don't do it. Canam73 has good advice. A used hybrid for $50 or less with all aluminum parts and indexed 21 speed drivetrain is going to be a much nicer ride than an old steel clunker. I bought 2 on Ebay for the kids with local pickup .... $30 each !! Put some skinny slicks on there and it will do well for you until you can afford a real road bike.

Very sound advice.

OP, you shouldn't have sold that Allez!!!

Maybe Justin will sell his Dad's old Hybrid (w/aero bars!) to you for $50. Justin?

Passed on the Columbia, have the option to pick up a Road Race 303 (Japanese) or a Magnet from Holland. Any ideas? Both are 10 Speeds

go to bike shop, finance bike, report stolen.

I didn't recommend that.