Chana [none/use name]

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Joined 3 days ago
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Cake day: May 17th, 2025

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  • A 90s or 2000s mountain bike with no suspension will give you lots of options. If you look for a steel frame from a decent maker (Specialized, Giant, GT, etc) with standardized components (like Shimano) you will have many ways to modify it to your needs without spending much money. Instead of a suspension, try to get a bike with good wheels and tires and underinflate them. Make sure to inspect the frame for damage and run away from any bikes with paint that looks like it is bubbling.

    An example of this kind of bike is a 1996 Specialized Hard Rock. This model is trendy for rebuilds and might be hard to find but this kind of frame geometry will give you that hybrid feel but still leave you with options for later on. With decent components and in good condition it should not cost more than $300.

    I also recommend that you do your best to get a reasonably sized bike and try different saddles until you find a good one. A given bike model will usually come in 3 to 7 different sizes. Try many different bikes at bike shops and write down the model, year, and sizes that work best for you. Then look up their frame geometries online. You’ll notice some trends in what works for you. For example, I know what standover height and effective top tube length I want for road bikes pretty well. If you then buy a used bike you can measure it with a measured tape to make sure it isn’t totally wrong. The three things that will matter most are standover height (vs your inseam), stack, reach, and effective top tube length.

    I also recommend learning basic bike maintenance! There are very good videos on YouTube. Even things as simple as washing and drying the bike or lubricating the chain will go a long ways.

    PS I personally prefer road-ish bikes with drops, but this is really personal preference and depends on athleticism. You might want to try out a few styles at a shop before deciding. Also see if you have a local used/rebuily bike co-op, they usually have good deals and nice people.