Need advice on bike purchase for commuting to work

[Bootstrap Bill]

I have a ten mile commute on slightly hilly terrain. I'm 6'3", weigh about 200 lbs. I'd like to spend around $200. Can I get anything decent in that price range? I got a Kmart special a few years ago (less than $100) and rode it once.

What is the least I can spend for a decent commuting bicycle?

I'm in Murrieta, California if there are any local store owners reading this forum.

 

[davereo]

If 200 is your limit try checking for used bikes in your area. Unfortunatly there is no big jump in quality from 1 to 2 hundred dollars. If you can double your budget you may be able to get a decent Hybrid from your LBS. They are very comfortable to ride and make decent commuters.

 

[oldbobcat]

$300 is about the price of admission for a bike shop bike that will fit you and hold up to rigorous use by a full-size adult. $400 can get you a very nice hybrid commuter that you will actually enjoy riding longer distances day in and day out. At 6'3" you will need a large frame (21-22" mountain bike or 21-25" hybrid). Cheap bikes are generally not available in sizes larger than 18".

 

[swampy1970]

$200 won't get you much at a regular bike store but if you have a keen eye then some of the bike recycling places sometimes have some surprising finds that have been donated.

I live up in NorCal, so I'm not to familiar with your neck of the woods down near Temecula but up here we have stores like this one:

http://www.tripsforkids.org/marin/recyclery.htm

"My car broke down and I was across the street and about to call a cab. I saw your shop and came over and bought a bike instead for $15.
– Re-Cyclery customer"

That quote just about says it all...

I've taken a looksie in that store and they've had old Cannondales that look pretty beat but are still a good ride - nothing a quick coat of matt black and a new set of stickers wouldn't fix. The price is right (dirt cheap), the money goes to a great cause and for less than $50 in some cases you get a bike that's upto the task of getting you from A to B better than the WallyWorld bike and you don't feel too ticked off if some theiving toerag cuts the cable and makes off with it.

There's always Craigslist.

 

[JKTowson]

It's tough to find a good bike for the $200 range. I would recommend going to a Sports Authority or ****'s, they have some decent bikes there for people on a budget.

Thanks,
Jason Krul
http://www.bikepumps.org/