New to cycling, need help on finding a bike!

[chris87mac]

I am currently at the end of my knee surgery recovery and I really want to get into cycling. I live right by the lake shore drive in Chicago and that will be my normal road condition. I am really interested in a flat bar road bike/hybrid. Unfortunately, I am on a tight budget. Is there a decent bike that could handle 3-5 rides a week for around 250?
Any suggestions would be great, thanks!

 

[Shak180]

Look on your local craigslist for a good used bike. There are plenty of deals to be had right now.

 

[chris87mac]

The main thing that I have found on craigslist is scams and over pricing. (I am sure there are some good bikes on there).

I was considering buying an entry level bike that I could start to upgrade tires, tubes etc once I have the money.



Are any of these bikes worth the money right now? Ie decent frame and will be worth it for the summer for an entry rider?
http://www.roadbikeoutlet.com/single-speed-fixed-gear-fixie-bicyles.html

Vilano Single Speed / Fixed Gear Fixie Track Bicycle
http://www.walmart.com/ip/700C-Men-s-Mongoose-Cachet-Fixed-Speed-Bike/13398142?findingMethod=rr

700c Men's Mongoose Cachet Road Bike ( Yes I know, walmart?)
Thank you in advance!!

 

[Froze]

$250 is a very limiting factor but try Bikes Direct at http://www.bikesdirect.com/ And don't worry about finding the right size, they have a size charts near the bottom of every page that makes it a breeze; and shipping is free. I would recommend increasing your budget just a hair to $299.95. These bikes at Bikes Direct are way better then any Walmart bike. OR, as others have said, you can do the Craigslist dance for a few months hoping to find a really nice condition used bike in your size.