I've been biking for a long time, but stopped really looking at buying several years ago once I got my Trek hybrid. I'm now looking at buying a bike for my girlfriend who somehow escaped childhood without ever riding a bike. I was looking around for an inexpensive starter bike. I had previously bought her a membership to the gym I go to (at her request) and ended up canceling it after 3 months when she didn't show up once to even pick up the membership card... sooo if it doesn't take I don't want to be out too much. If she likes it a much better bike will be forthcoming. I considered the big box stores, but their bikes are basically **** and I didn't want to start her off with a bad experience. Alternatively I was looking at BikesDirect.com which has slightly better low level bikes seemingly, but mixed reviews on whether they truly are any better than box stores. (looking at the BD brand Dawes Eclipse 2 at the moment).
Preferably I was looking towards a hybrid style, but willing to consider most anything. Is there a better bike / site / etc. I should be looking at to find a sub $300 bike to start someone out who has never ridden before?
Preferably I was looking towards a hybrid style, but willing to consider most anything. Is there a better bike / site / etc. I should be looking at to find a sub $300 bike to start someone out who has never ridden before?