$80, $200? Did you make a typo in these? You're lucky to get a good bike for $200. A bike I can keep for 12 years would easily cost me 500 euro (~US$625 currently), for the most basic model, probably without gears at that price.
I didn't own a car when I bought my bike and I rode it most 10-15 miles most every day for 2 years. Now 5 years later I still ride it at least twice a week, and the only replacements I have needed to do is 1 set of pedals, and the usual tire stuff.
I had a huffy bike (walmart style) that lasted 10 years of heavy riding, before it was stolen. Replaced it with a $200 restored 80's Raleigh road bike that I got by a side-of-the-highway bike shop.
Never really understood the masses that go to a shiny hipster bike shop and pay $700-1000 for a brand-new basic commuter. There are so many used bikes out there that need loving owners.
One of the main advantages of buying used bikes is that people actually used to build bikes properly so they last 43 years with all stock parts.
$200 for a decent bike might be a stretch, but $300 definitely gets you in that range.
They buy them at the little shops.
> and lack of overall consumerism.
Feature, not bug.
It needs front and rear lights, fenders, chain guard, and likely a built-in lock. It also needs to be able to stand up to being outside in the rain for long periods of time.
While a bike in the US, used only for sunny days and by people who aren't wearing office clothes, and which is stored in the garage or basement, doesn't have the same requirements.
I love the trickle down effect in bicycling. I got my 2001 Trek 5200 for ~ $1000. The components are a bit behind, but I'd be happy to ride the carbon-fiber frameset for the next 10 years!