Are entry level bicycles just commodities now?

[pete6032]

Looking to buy a leisure bike for weekend rides within the city on paved paths. Nothing fancy needed. Having a lot of trouble finding a reviews site that provides objective opinions on bikes. Seems like the local bike shops all offer different entry level models. But none can really tell me what the difference is between brands. Any recommendations? Just buy the cheapest entry level bike that a sales associate recommends?

 

[IronWing]

Pretty much. You will likely have better results buying from a bicycle shop than from a big box as the folks assembling the bikes might know what they’re doing.

 

[biostud]

Try the bikes in the shop and go for a ride. See which one you like the best.

 

[Dr. Detroit]

Buy a Electra Townie. Comfortable and great city bikes.

 

[MrSquished]

Go to an LBS as was mentioned.

For your needs try to find a shop that has entry level 1x drivetrains. That is just one large ring up front, then like 10 or so in the rear. That should be enough for anything but crazy hilly cycling. It's less maintenance and just easier to deal with.