New to Cycling.... Help me out!
 

Hey guys, great forum. Had a quick question, would be great if you could help me out. I'm looking to purchase a bike for myself, a beginner. I rode when I was younger (I'm now 21), looking to get back into it.

Is this a good deal? Can anyone tell me more about this type of bicycle? I googled it but could find very little.

http://memphis.craigslist.org/bik/1550084753.html

He said he would give it to me for $80. Thanks guys.

This is a pretty old bike but appears usable from the photos. The components are low quality, but the frame and fork are very basic and hence it should do the job. I'd pay maybe $50 for it, but if it fits you, the components work (shifter & brakes) and the wheels are reasonably round and true I'd say go for it. The bike looks like a decent "get around town" bike. This probably isn't something you'll want for long rides out of town.

Thanks for your response. If I were to buy new and didn't want to spend a ton of money (what if I don't take to it?), do you have any suggestions for modestly priced but decent bikes? I'd be riding around town.

Does that bike fit you? How tall are you? What's your inseam length?
What's your budget for a new bike? What will you be using the bike for? commuting? weekend rides?
You could get a new entry-level hybrid or mtn bike for about $375 if you shop around.
http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebik..._citizen1.html
http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebik...0_trailx1.html

If you aren't planning on racing, but want to ride around town, keep an eye out for an old road bike that fits. Many people will tell you to avoid anything but chro-moly, carbon fiber, or aluminum.

I would recommend finding any old road or hybrid bike that fits, has alloy rims (check with a magnet if you can't visually ID them), and needs the least work. It can get expensive to fix up a bike in need. I ride a hi tensile steel bike very regularly and they are a bit heavier, but fine.

http://memphis.craigslist.org/bik/1556675132.html

I didn't pull the trigger on the other one. He said he'd give me this one for 100. I've heard Giant is a good brand.

A Nutra is an ok bike. I've worked on a few. :o A 22" frame is for someone tall or at least much taller than me. I'm 6'.
How tall are you?

I realized that I was too short. I'm 5'10. I went to a great bike shop today and got outfitted for this baby:

http://www.****************/wp-conte...ntain-bike.jpg

It's a Specialized Hardrock. It's 19 inches, and fantastic. Went for an hour ride and had a blast. Thank you guys so much for your help.