You can definitely find department store bikes for less than $100. You get what you pay for.
$200 for a decent bike might be a stretch, but $300 definitely gets you in that range.
$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!