New to casual biking- not sure which type of bike is better?

[DaniLongIsland]

I am 28 and my boyfriend and I are interested in getting started casual biking around the neighborhood and then some local bike trails for exercise and fun! We don’t really know much about bikes. I know a mountain bike is good for me, due to its shocks and in case we end up doing some trails. I know bikes can be expensive but my budget is very limited currently. I do not want to spend much on a bike, honestly like $80-$120 range. Is it better to buy a lower end Huffy or Schwinn from like Kmart or target? Or a used/ refurbished higher end bike? Also what about the target and Kmart store brand bikes? I have listed my current options below thanks!!

Thanks!!
Also, I have had back problems in the past etc and I am worrying about how biking will affect my posture. Any advice or any good types of braces etc that may work? Thank you!

http://www.kmart.com/huffy-superia-26inch-ladies-bike/p-080W004255265001P?prdNo=3

http://www.walmart.com/ip/26-Huffy-Trail-Runner-Women-s-Mountain-Bike/33396334

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Roadmaster-Granite-Peak-26-Ladies-Mountain-Bike-Magenta/34931886

http://www.walmart.com/ip/26-Avalon-Women-s-Cruiser-Bike/21635128

http://longisland.craigslist.org/bik/4544725264.html

http://longisland.craigslist.org/bik/4553979463.html

 

[AyeYo]

I'd steer clear of any type of suspension in that price range, especially full suspension. There's no need to have suspension for neighborhood and dirt trail riding. Unless you're bombing over rocks and doing some serious off-roading, a solid frame/fork will do just fine. That suspension will be broken in short order, so no reason to have it.

Those cruiser bikes you listed will be better for your back. Look for bikes with handlebars well above seat level. This will give you the most upright and relaxed riding position.

Honestly, any bike in that price range is going to be equally crappy and equally good at getting you around the neighborhood. Understand that you're buying something disposable that will only last a season or two. Avoid anything with suspension and just get which ever one feels best if they let you ride it around. Any of them should be able to do casual neighborhood and bike path rides without issues. If you start riding regularly and riding any decent distances, expect stuff to start breaking.

 

[oldbobcat]

None of the above. This:

Originally Posted by AyeYo
I'd steer clear of any type of suspension in that price range, especially full suspension. There's no need to have suspension for neighborhood and dirt trail riding.

Right. The point of entry for full suspension that actually works and isn't junk is around $1500 (cheaper online), so you can imagine how useless this stuff is.

Your local shop has solid bikes for this kind of riding, starting around $300-400.

Regarding the used bikes you linked to, the Magna cost about $100 new (at Target), and the Ross is at least 20 years old. There's a reason they're still for sale. Don't pay more than $35 for either of these.

 

[doctorold]

If your budget is low, I would suggest adopting a bike off of Craig's list. So many folks buy bikes new with intentions of riding and never do. So there are bunches of lightly ridden bikes that can be had for deep discounts. Requires a little searching and a little patience but you can usually find a really nice bike that way. So keep looking ! You can do better than a Magna.

 

[mpre53]

The Schwinns sold at Walmart are built to Walmart's (read, shitty) specs are assembled by Walmart workers. I've seen bikes on the floor with the forks installed backwards, the pedals turned in, and on closer inspections, saw that the pedals were cross threaded into the crank arms. Schwinns are also sold by bike shops, and even if they are the same spec on components, they are at least put together the right way. And adjusted.