What is the best comfort bike/city bike for under $500?

10 Comments

1. ? says:

   October 12, 2010 at 3:05 am

   Big guys like us have special requirements when it comes to purchasing a bicycle. Those requirements tend to mean that we have to spend a bit more money. We need strong, durable frames, preferably made of steel. We need wheels that have at least 36 spokes. We need wider tires, as big guy plus skinny tire equals more flat tires. Wide tires are also the main source of comfort. We need strong, well built brakes that can stand up to our weight long term. All of these things equal expense. As such, your best bet is to buy a used touring bike. They are designed specifically to carry heavy loads in comfort over long distances for a long time. They are capable of running wide, comfortable tires as well as fenders to keep you drier in the wet. They have mounts for racks so you can carry stuff. Don’t be swayed by people who tell you to get a ‘comfort’ bike or a ‘hybrid’ bike. ‘Comfort’ bikes are only comfortable in the short term, for very short rides, and aren’t as suitable for big guys like us as touring bikes are. Check with your local independent bike shops to see what they have in the way of used touring bikes, and check craigslist to see if there are any people that fix up and resell old bikes in their spare time. There are loads of great old touring bikes that have been made over the years, so it will take a bit of research.

   Good luck!
2. Jimmy S says:

   October 12, 2010 at 3:24 am

   http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/cafe_latte.htm

   This is a hybrid, but will do the job for you and may be more comfortable than a tourer with drop bars, especially for casual riding.

   The idea of a touring specific bike is a good one, but they cost $1000 plus new at bike shops. You can order one, the Windsor Tourist, from bikesdirect for $600. You’ll need the 64 cm size.

   Light assembly required. Will save you the trouble and risk of buying used.