Okay, bike (cycle) enthusiasts!!

[Ceej]

I've decided I am going to start riding a bike to work once the weather gets a tad warmer. It's only 5.8 miles both ways.

Any recommendations or brands to target, or stay away from?

I'm not looking to spend a lot of money -- and will probably wind up just buying something used.

I'll dish out a couple of extra dollars if I can get sweet, red/blue KU streamers and a sweet horn too. So, that won't be an issue.

Thanks!

[Molitoth]

[Omaha]

I'd look for a cyclocross or performance hybrid bike. I wouldn't worry too much about brand name. Just ride them and buy the one that feels right.

[Chest Rockwell]

Originally Posted by Omaha

I'd look for a cyclocross or performance hybrid bike. I wouldn't worry too much about brand name. Just ride them and buy the one that feels right.

I concur with this. Went into a bit more detail in this post in another thread, but basically, this.

[rageeumr]

What's the route to work? On the road or on a bike trail?

Do you have any thoughts of riding recreationally in the future, or is this purely a commuter deal?

[Ceej]

Originally Posted by rageeumr

What's the route to work? On the road or on a bike trail?

Do you have any thoughts of riding recreationally in the future, or is this purely a commuter deal?

Mostly sidewalks.

I'm doing this mostly to get exercise, save on gas money and wear/tear on my car.

Just commuter, mostly.

[rageeumr]

Originally Posted by CJizzles

Mostly sidewalks.

I'm doing this mostly to get exercise, save on gas money and wear/tear on my car.

Just commuter, mostly.

Then I agree with the suggestion to look at at CX or hybrid bike. You could also look at a true commuter bike.

[Ceej]

Originally Posted by rageeumr

Then I agree with the suggestion to look at at CX or hybrid bike. You could also look at a true commuter bike.

Any idea what these cost new and used?

[Chest Rockwell]

Originally Posted by CJizzles

Any idea what these cost new and used?

Like anything else you can spend as much or little as you want.

Figure out what size you need and what you like then watch the list of Craig. Lots of people get bored or buy something that doesn't fit and end up not being able to ride and dump them there.

If the terrain is mild between you and work you could also think about a single speed and not have to worry as much about maintenance.

[Omaha]

Originally Posted by CJizzles

Any idea what these cost new and used?

Cyclocross bikes will start at about $900 and can run up to several thousand dollars at your local shop.

Hybrids usually start in the $250 - $300 range up to about $2K or more.

If you want to save cash AND you're very comfortable with your size and the style of bike you want, you can save quite a bit buying online from bikesdirect.com. You can get a cylcocross bike for less than $400. The bikes come partially assembled so you'll have some work to do and you may want to have it checked out by your bike shop for a small fee. You are also buying a bike you've never ridden so you'll be rolling the dice that you'll like the feel of it.

I know people who've gone this route and they've been happy. I prefer to test ride my bikes before I buy.

Let us know what you decide.

[Chest Rockwell]

Originally Posted by CJizzles

Mostly sidewalks.

I'm doing this mostly to get exercise, save on gas money and wear/tear on my car.

Just commuter, mostly.

Since it's going to be a commuter you might also want to consider something with fender and/or pannier mounts in case of unexpected weather or if you need to carry much.

[Omaha]

Also, if you haven't already, go to a local bike shop and get fitted. That way, if you decide to buy used, you won't waste time looking at the wrong bikes. Make sure the bike you buy fits you well.

[Ceej]

Originally Posted by Omaha

Also, if you haven't already, go to a local bike shop and get fitted. That way, if you decide to buy used, you won't waste time looking at the wrong bikes. Make sure the bike you buy fits you well.

See, I would have never thought about this. I never knew you could get fitted for a bicycle. However, my chode and I would like to thank you!

There's a place in Topeka called CAPPS I plan on checking out soon.

[ping2000]

Avoid the KU colors unless you desire to get "doored" by MU fans.

[Ceej]

Originally Posted by ping2000

Avoid the KU colors unless you desire to get "doored" by MU fans.

I live in Topeka, Ks. About 25 miles from Lawrence.

Not too worried about that.