I've been riding my Marin Larkspur for a while but I recently tried out my friends single speed bike and I really enjoyed the way it rode. The ride was just way smoother and it was more fun to operate. Also, my Marin is way too small for me. It has a 17.5" frame and I am 5'10". Was thinking about selling it for maybe something like $200 and picking up a single speed.

I live in Davis, CA and there are a lot of bike shops here but they are quite expensive. Also, I tried checking Craigslist for around a month but I couldn't find anything worth it. So it looks like I either have to wait until mid June when final exams are over and I am back in the south Bay Area, or I could always order online.

I have around $300 to spend. Only real concern is I don't want it to be all flashy and colorful as I am not into that kind of thing. I just want a straight black/white/silver color with drops or bullhorns.

What would you guys recommend?

Thanks!

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

Also go to here and figure out what size you need. The most important measurement is the top tube length.

Target has a Schwinn for less than $300. I have no knowledge of the quality or durability of the bike, but it's there. How they could possibly build an aluminum frame FG bike that weighs 35lbs is a head scratcher.

https://www.target.com/p/schwinn-men-...#guest-reviews

I dun think Traget know what they's talkin bout.

Based on this:

• Dimensions: 52.8 " L x 7.7 " W x 29.5 " H
• Weight: 35.0 Lb.

I'm going to assume they are talking about the shipping weight.

Wow that site has some nice bikes! Will order form here for sure.

Now as for tuning and assembly, should I take the bike to an LBS or take it on myself? Never assembled a bike before but I build PC's all the time so I figure if that is easy this shouldn't be too bad.

This probably isn't the best conclusion to make. The biggest issue with BD bikes seems to be that they (usually?) put them together without greasing them so people recommend taking everything off and regreasing, which can be difficult if you don't have the proper tools. Wrenching on bikes isn't hard but it can be time consuming and tools can get expensive.

Would you want a bike mechanic working on your computer? Take it to a bike shop.

youtube helped my cousin out building his kilo.

So I'll add to his question is it better to end up with a 300 dollar BD bike that I can put together and re grease everything (bike mechanic) or should I try and build ground up being this is my first fixie and am not sure what I should start with (frame wise) and all?

A complete bike will almost always be a better deal. You should only build from scratch if you have something very specific in mind or you have a large parts bin already.

so to that is a BD bike worth the cash if I know what I am doing with it?

Easily.

Fantastic news! I shall rejoice with a beer. D:

BD bikes are a great value. You can get something the pedals down the road for the price of a frameset and wheels.

Be careful with the bike fit calculator. If you use it and adjust every last thing according to the "French Fit" dimensions (with the exception of seat tube) you will be criticized from all four coners of the earth.

It took me about 2 months of watching craigslist but I found a like new 2008 surly steamroller on cl for $300 check the sight often good deals don't last long. I did have another bike to ride though