Author Topic: Hybrid bike suggestions-looking for advice  (Read 7877 times)

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Offline Valerie

Hybrid bike suggestions-looking for advice
« on: April 22, 2006, 06:46:17 am »
Hello all!

Its been many years since I've ridden a bike. I'm looking to purchase a hybrid bike. I live in the country and want to ride the rolling hills. I would also like to be able to ride into work which is 12 miles away in the city. I don't ever see myself doing any hardcore mountain biking but I would like to be able to ride some fairly rough dirt roads. One bike that looks good to me is theDiamondback Edgewood. Does this seem like a good choice? Any other suggestions are appreciated. I'm willing to spend $300-$500 and if I like make a bigger investment in a few years.

Thanks! :)


cyclesafe

  • Guest
Hybrid bike suggestions-looking for advice
« Reply #1 on: April 22, 2006, 09:31:37 am »
If I had only $300-500 for a bike, I would definitely buy a used one on ebay.  If you buy a new one at that price, you will be fighting friction and weight every time you ride.  It might even fall apart.

Used bikes tend not to be the color or have some of the features that you want, but if you get one that was $1000+ when new, the better frame and componetry (even if worn) will give you a much more pleasurable ride.  You can also replace components if they are completely worn out.  Finally, the last advantage of buying a used bike is that you can probably sell it in a few years for what you paid and put the money towards the bike of your dreams.

By the way, you might want to consider a touring bike or a road bike with relaxed geometry that can accommodate wider tires rather than a hybrid.  A hybrid does nothing well in my opinion.


Offline alfonso

Hybrid bike suggestions-looking for advice
« Reply #2 on: April 22, 2006, 10:57:03 pm »
Cyclesafe makes some good points, but I'm not sure I agree. If you buy
a new bike, you have the support of the shop -- and having access to
good advice and service is more important, at this price level and as a
beginner, than the make of the bike. You also need to be quite sure
what you're buying on e-bay.

I bought an inexpensive hybrid when, like you, I returned to cycling. I
have covered very long distances on supported tours and used it for
long commutes and long day rides. I've kept it for far longer than I
expected when I bought it. Hybrids do nothing supremely well, but do
many things quite well, and their versatility is a great plus. They give
you time to decide what you would like as a next step.

Whatever you decide, you'll enjoy it.


Offline rsheard

Hybrid bike suggestions-looking for advice
« Reply #3 on: April 29, 2006, 10:30:59 pm »
I have to echo alfonso here. I began riding just a year ago and started with a moderately-priced hybrid. I only ride on roads, however.

A year later--once I realized I was hooked--I bought a road bike, but the hybrid served its purpose of letting me decide if riding was for me without breaking the bank.

Robert Sheard
http://robertsheard.com