Hi, thanks in advance for any & all insight & advice!
I am looking to purchase my first adult bike as a bday present to myself. I am interested in the one pictured. The listing description is the last picture. It is priced at $200, but they are open to offers.
I am looking for something “better,” like more reliable, than what Walmart would get ya. However, I do not need anything fancy & cannot afford something more than ~$200. I am looking for a basic, lower maintenance, versatile, entry-level bike. One that is lightweight, would get me around town for quick grocery trips, & can handle some light dirt trails that are around me. Casual use for funzies, probably not daily.
Am I 5’2”. I think this size would work me, but of course, I’d test it out before purchasing.
What do we think about this bike listing? Am I way off the mark for what I am interested in? Good price? It appears ready-to-drive, but I fear I would not know any better. Should I ask any specific questions firstly? I know it’s an old bike, am I better off with new?
Open to suggestions and general guidance. I can take my butt to Walmart for a bike if that’s actually more suitable for interests haha
by _noodlebean
2 Comments
This would be a great bike for a fair price assuming it does not need any mechanical repairs. It’s a 30 year old bike, so it’s going to be heavy and slow compared to a modern bike.
Solid bike. Reasonable price as long as the drivetrain isn’t completely worn out and/or the rubber isn’t all hard and in need of replacement (brake pads, tires). Offer $150 and it’s a great deal.
Newer won’t necessarily be better. Bicycle quality at the same price point has been falling off sharply ever since COVID. Something modern and comparable would be like $1000.
Give it a test ride, make sure it shifts to all gears well and doesn’t operate strangely in any of them. Make sure the brakes work. Make sure you can adjust the saddle height. If you have a local bike co-op maybe you can bring it there after purchase for a cheap/free assessment of what it might need.