Agreed!!
This is one of those things that cheap usually does mean cheap. Especially for the componentry of the bicycle itself. Frames are frames, some are just lighter and sturdier....but the big price point is components.
It looks like its equipped for rear panniers.
I'd consider a local bike shop, though, before REI.....I think he'd get better help in determining how a bike fits him properly.
jfruser, being in the Dallas suburbs, you seem to have a nearly unlimited supply of bike shops. You even have a performance shop nearby.
Richardson, TX bike shops
If you do go the used bike route, your best bet will be a touring or cyclocross bike. Make sure its got the braze ons for racks. Check your local shops, sometimes shops broker used bikes they get on trade or consignment. Also look for a local bicycle touring club, alot of times they have a classifieds section in thier newsletter or website. Fit is hard to judge for the inexperienced eye, though, so buying used can be scary. Nothing like hurting yourself on the bike due to improper fit.
Agreed!!
This is one of those things that cheap usually does mean cheap. Especially for the componentry of the bicycle itself. Frames are frames, some are just lighter and sturdier....but the big price point is components.
Yes and no. Pretty much anything from the major "real" bike brand is going to suit a beginner. If a particular model fits your needs, don't obsess over the price point.
It looks like its equipped for rear panniers.
I'd consider a local bike shop, though, before REI.....I think he'd get better help in determining how a bike fits him properly.
If there's an REI near him (haven't looked), the would be a "local bike shop". I've heard good things about the bike service at the Fairfax, Va REI (and the one in Cary, NC for that matter).
Regarding "fit", if the shop you go to considers a bike to fit ONLY by "standover" height, find another shop. Standover is actually one of the less important parameters assuming you're not mashing the twig and berries. BTW, a taller frame will reduce the seat to handlebar "drop", making the bike more comfortable for a beginner (me too for that matter).
Chris
I was all ready to chime in and repeat all of the biking wisdom you'd need, but that's already been posted so far. It sounds you have thing well in hand, between the Performance Bike dude and the local REI (try again, I've always received great service in their stores).
Mtnbkr rides a hard leather Brooks saddle, and he's not the first person I've had tell me they rock.
I ride a Brooks too, and it does indeed rock. For whatever that's worth...
Mtnbkr rides a hard leather Brooks saddle, and he's not the first person I've had tell me they rock. Me I like a narrow "racing" style saddle with a cutout in the middle.
I ride on a Brooks B17... yep, it rocks. That makes three of us here that think so...