What's a good Bicycle builder these days? (1 Viewer)

[Lee Scoggins]

Hi friends,

My wife and I are looking for something affordable and plan to do mostly road and light trail cycling...ideally would like something of decent quality under $200.

I know Cannondale is a good brand but last I checked their bikes were outside of our price range?

Any suggestions on what to look for in terms of construction, gearing, price, etc?

Thanks for your help!

Lee

 

[Andrew W]

Try REI, but seriously, I don't think you will find a quality built bike in the < $200 range. More like $400 as an entry level.

 

[Matt Stone]

Yah, $200 is a little low for a quality build. I used a Trek 4100 at college for my last two years (2 actually, one got stolen) that I paid $350 for. Pretty decent bike.

 

[Jay H]

Giant, Raleigh, Kona, Fuji (at least road bikes). all make some good inexpensive bikes these days, still out of your

 

[Lee Scoggins]

Thanks guys. My wife and I splurged and expanded our budget. We got Trek 7200s...great bike-a nice comfy ride and decent trail capability, 24 speed, good Shimano drivetrain, decent front shock.

We got great service from a local specialty shop and they offer free adjustments for the life of the bike. We had cycling helmuts (Giro) from our roller blading.

We paid a very reasonable $350 (about $20 discount). A good investment I think...

 

[Shane Martin]

Lee,
Trek was going to be my suggestion. Bulletproof bikes. I loved mine.

 

[Philip Hamm]

My wife has a VW Trek that came with her 1996 Jetta, it's like new even with little or no maintenance over that period. I just bought a Giant Cypress this year and I like it but it weighs about twice what that Trek weighs!

 

[Mark Leiter]

I would have suggested a Jamis. I purchased one earlier this year for about $270 and have been very happy with it. It has shocks in the front and in the seat. 21 spd and overall has held up very with with the amount i use it (approx. 50 miles a week)

well recommended.