I am looking to purchase a new bicycle that is in the range of $200-$400 new, but I would really like to keep it to $300. The bike will mainly be used around campus streets and sidewalks where I will probably ride 5-6 miles a day ( I am walking this now and it is slow and tiring). I would also like to use this bike for recreation and exercising and a bit of offroading, but not much more than dirt trails. So basically, I want a mountain bike that will be comfortable for 6 miles a day at least and some extra miles on trails. I would like to spend a bit more on a nicer bike, but bike theft is a bit of a problem and even if I lock it up I cannot prevent people from smashing it which seems to be just as much of a problem. I am new to "real" biking and have no idea what to look for. Can anyone suggest a specific bike in my price range? So far I have looked a bit at Specialized and Giant, because that is what the bike stores around me sell. I am in Columbus, OH and will be going to Toledo, OH for the weekend if anyone has a good place to look in the area or a favorite shop. Also, are the high end kryptonite locks the best way to secure the bike? Has anyone tried kryptonites locking skewers for the seat and wheels? Will this work on all bikes?
Thanks,
Brian
Thanks,
Brian