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Extremely Cheap Bike?

Jul 3, 2009
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Hi,

Is it possible to buy a $200-$300 racing bike?

I am not planning on racing the bike. I just want a bike that can take me across campus (Boston University) quickly and will not tire me out by the time I get there.

I'm not a serious biker but I do enjoy occasionally ride my bike with friends so having a bike that won't be too tiring to bike would be nice which is why I'm looking into a racing bicycle.

Thanks!
 
Jul 3, 2009
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Typically, if you are looking for a NEW multispeed road style bicycle, the answer is no. you are not going to find one that cheap. right around $500 is where they are going to start.

Your best bet for this price range is either a single speed or a used road bike. keep your eyes on your local craigslist ads and stop by all the second hand (goodwill) style shops near you. keep in mind that a used bike may need a good deal of work before it is ridable but it can be a very good way to find such a deal.
 
Mar 11, 2009
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whatsup said:
Hi,

Is it possible to buy a $200-$300 racing bike?

I am not planning on racing the bike. I just want a bike that can take me across campus (Boston University) quickly and will not tire me out by the time I get there.

I'm not a serious biker but I do enjoy occasionally ride my bike with friends so having a bike that won't be too tiring to bike would be nice which is why I'm looking into a racing bicycle.

Thanks!

Craig's list. Just went there for Boston..lots of bicycles that will fit your bill.
 
Jul 3, 2009
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I took your advice and went on craigslist, found a little shop in Framingham, MA called Simple Living Cycles. It got 5/5 ratings on the rating sites when I looked it up.

This is the email he sent me; I reformatted it and cut part of it out so it's easier to read:

Hello,

Here is a list of new bikes on sale. Please give me a call if you have questions.
Phil A. Simple Living Cycles tel 508 620 6600
SIMPLE LIVING CYCLES - DISCOUNT BICYCLES
57 Waverly St. (rte 135) Framingham
TEL 508 620 6600
Mon thru Fri 8 to 5, sat 8 to 4. Sun by appt.

closeouts, discount bicycles.
All New Bikes

ROAD BIKES - Flat Bar and Drop-Down Bar




2008 closeouts
Schwinn LeTour
44 48
$350

Schwinn Le Tour GS
44 48
$420

GT Series 3
s, m,.l, xl
$590

Jamis Ventura Sport
50 54 56 58 61
$395

Redline 550
46 50 53 55
$345

Redline 540
47 50 53
$280

Schwinn Fastback
48 52 56 59
$405

GT Series 4
45 50 54 58
$480

Schwinn Circuit
50 58
$320

Jamis Coda
14 16 17 23
$340

Schwinn Supersport
47 50 53 56 59
$325

Jamis Allegro
14 19 21
$395

Redline Conquest Sport Cyclo/Road
48 50 52 54 56
$450

Jamis Quest
51
$835

Jamis Allegro 1X
14,23
$270

I decided to raise my budget so I am looking at the Schwinn Le Tour. I don't understand the numbers under it but will it fit someone who is 5' 7''?

Thanks!
 
Mar 10, 2009
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the numbers underneath are the frame sizes available for each model in stock. frame sizing is a dark art but for general riding around you should look at a 50 or 52 frame i'm guessing. we're the same height and this rule of thumb works for me although you need to be aware of the vagaries of each manufacturer when it comes to top tube length. again, for me, 5 '7", 29.5" inside leg length 50-52 cm frame size measured center of bottom bracket to center top tube and a 53 - 53.5 cm virtual top tube length works best.
you need to decide if you want drop bars or flat bars for your riding. i would suggest from your op that a flat bar may be more suitable since it will give you a more 'heads up' position for seeing traffic and flat bars are generally wider than drops and therefore more stable,especially if carry a school bag/messenger bag.
hope that this helps. happy hunting and good luck!