I’m a broke female student and just want a cheap ($150 or below) bike that I can take to school, work, trails, and other short excursions. Selling my old little cruiser for something I can take a bit farther, use daily, and maybe get a decent workout from. I’m a simple gal but style does play somewhat of a factor. I’ve found plenty of second hand options locally and just need some extra opinions. Yes I know most are cheap trash but one has to do the job. Top pick is the Liv so lmk why or why not. I’d prefer to just pick one of these but if there is a bike worth recommending, I’d prefer to be able to get it in person, doesn’t have to be second hand. (Bakersfield, Ca) Thanks to anyone who can take a quick look!
by 222lie
4 Comments
The Liv and the GT are the only bikes that should be considered here. Ozark would be the third choice if the first two are no longer available.
For what you’re looking to do, get the Liv. You don’t need disc brakes unless you’re looking to do more serious trail riding. Even then, the disc brakes outfitted on low end mountain bikes is pretty meh and not a huge step up from a properly dialed rim V-brake
At this price point, and especially considering that you’ve mentioned you’re a broke student, condition is really important otherwise you could quickly spend the purchase price on getting it running right. On the basis of pics and taking into account your aspirations I would go Liv, GT, and Ozark Trail in that order. Of the three the Liv will be nicest to ride but the GT and Ozark Trail have disc brakes which is a massive upgrade over rim brakes.
Good luck with the purchase and enjoy the ride.
Also don’t watch this! https://youtu.be/yotOZVELSMc
Figure out which one fits you best (ask their sizes and what the model is, google the sizing guide) and go with ONLY the Liv or the GT. They are the two bicycles actually built to function well. Unfortunately, the others will be cheap department store junk that will break quickly and won’t be worth the money for repairs. The GT has disc brakes, which are better. It looks larger than the Liv but it’s hard to say which is “best”.
I would not bother with front suspension at that price range. It’s better to spend money on other components.