Best bike under $200 US

crocobar said:

[font=-moz-fixed]Hi everybody!

I am exploring my options to get the best road/commuter bike I can for
under US $200. I am in Illinois, USA. I know that this question pops
up regularly here, and I read through several similar threads but they
didn't answer all my questions. I also read the beginner's sticky
thread.

I know that the best bet would to look for a used bike but there are
too many of them. How do I tell a good deal from bad? I do not think
that LBS has to offer anything in my price range, so let's not discuss
it. Could you guys list brands that would make good deals used under
$200?

An older (70s-80s) bike seems like an affordable option. Which one to
get then? What is the conceptual difference between those oldies and
modern bikes? My inexperienced eye sees only gear shifters on the
downtube, is that all?

How compatible those older bike are with modern equipment. Will I be
able to upgrade it?

I do not mind assembling stuff myself. Does it make sense to get an
old bike for the frame and equip it with everything else, or it will
definitely be more expensive? I do not mind even to assemble the whole
bike from parts and then pay LBS to do fine tuning but I suspect this
is not a cheap option, is it?

I am 5'11", 215lbs (hope to lose 30 of them). How do I get the right
size for the bike?

As I say, I am looking for a racer-style bike (that is, with
half-moon-shaped handles for all I know). I will mainly use it to
commute to work, 10-12 miles roundtrip, using paved bike trails. I may
do some extra cardiovascular excercising but no racing, climbing, etc.
I do want to be reasonably safe and comfortable. Otherwise,
performance is not terribly important.

I'll appreciate any advice. Thanks!
[/font]

The best thing to do is go to your LBS and get measured up for a bike this will give you a frame size, go for a test ride make sure the size fits
do some research on components shimano is every where so would be a good brand of componentry to consider but dont not consider other brands if they are in good condition, even low level components will ride nicely if well looked after. Buying second hand, frame material wont be that important especially for non competative cycling good old steel is strong relible and repairable but dont not cosider other materials if they are in good condition, ride them and see if you like them. Yes you can upgrade components there are many second hand and NOS components out there but you must know what you are buying.
You would probably be better of buying a cheap bike that fits and see if you stick to riding it, if you do then in six to twelve months or so lash out, treat yourself and buy something a bit more modern
Dean.