Woman's Bike

Bluizflame

My fiance will be starting a new job soon, and he will be working almost the same hours as i do. We only have one car though. I thought maybe getting a bike for myself to get to work would be a good option. I only work 3ish miles from home, and his job is across town. The only drawback is i work at night, so it'll be dark. But, i think i would rather ride a bike to work than take the bus or walk.

Anyone have any suggestions on the 'make & model' of bike i should get? The whole way is paved, so no off road type stuff. The way there would pretty much be downhill, but that means the way back is uphill. Not a steep uphill, just a steady climb.

Chadomaniac

Id recommend a Scooter

Not sure what country u from so cant recommend a brand

Ainar

I don't understand much from bikes but they all are same in my book - you move the pedals, you turn wheels, you move forward.

mistyblu13

Schwinn makes a good bike that's not oober expensive- something with narrower tires since you are not off-roading and the more gears the better to make it up hills- check seat for comfort- get front and back lights as well as green/orange combo safety vest so you can be seen....emergency bag with extra tube and hand held/manual air compressor and pepper spray....just to be safe good for you wanting the bike rather than bus!

scorpio516

Go to your local bike shop. Get fitted for a nice road bike. Enjoy.

Big question though - Do you need to see at night, or just BE seen?

To be seen, i.e. your way is lit by street lights, etc. you just need some run of the mill head and tail lights.
To see, i.e. your way is in total darkness and you need to light your own way, you need much more expensive headlights.

Then, you might or might not need a women's bike. On a hybrid or mountain bike, women's frames are just weaker versions of men's frames. On road bikes, sometimes they are just tiny versions of men's frames, other times there are real geometry differences. However, if your long torso'd, a women's bike will never fit.

I'd NEVER suggest getting a hybrid. Just the name itself is a compromise. They don't handle as well on the road as a road bike. They aren't as efficient as a road bike. You are locked into one riding position - on a road bike, I can think of 4 different riding positions off the top of my head. They are useless off pavement, unlike a mountain bike. All around, they are a compromise and worse than any other type of bike. And they are heavy, which is a big problem if your spending 3 miles a trip going up hill!

bluestarlight19

Look for a road bike or a hybrid bike. You probably want something that will allow you to sit more upright and have straight handle bars. Hybrid bikes have thicker tires like comfort bikes but not as heavy as mountain bikes, they also have gears that you can change for hills and such unlike comfort bikes. Also, think accessories, like fenders for keeping mud and water from splashing on you from the tires, either a front rack or a back rack to hold your bags/gear. Dress for the weather, keep extra clothes on you because night riding can get cold, depending on the climate your in. Also, does it snow where you are? And, lights and reflectors and maybe a reflector vest to go over your coat so people see you. I highly recommend getting a sideview mirror on your bike too, it really helps to see cars coming up behind you.

Mokey41

A bike shop can help you make a decision. I'd suggest something in the line of a commuter or comfort bike. You'll have wider tires than a road bike for better stability, less maintenance and a more comfortable riding position. If you get one with a cassette gear system you don't have a lot of maintenance for gears but will have the ability to gear down for your uphill ride home.

Outfit yourself with lots of lights and reflectors, light colored jacket with reflective strips and a good helmet.

msf74

3 miles?

Get any bike you like riding and fits you well.

40mpw

For a three-mile commute, the type of bike you get is not important. Just find something that suits your price range, your aesthetics, and comfort. Consider a bike that already has fenders and a rack, because as a commuter you'll eventually want those things too. These things can be added to any other bike, so don't sweat it.

I'm not sure why the hate for hybrids -- it is one of my three bikes and definitely the most versatile. It's fast and light too. The last bike I bought was a vintage 10-speed with drop handlebars (Craigslist, $25). I found that there is a definite learning curve to riding with drop handlebars. To round out the stable I have a 3-speed Dutch-style bike. It is heavy and slower than the other two bikes, but it is a comfortable and stylish ride. As a bonus, because of the covered chain, I can ride it in my nice clothes.

QuincyChick

I have a Trek Neko S and I am in love with it. It's a hybrid.

GiddyupTim

To reiterate some of the previous suggestions, for work: fenders, sit upright (you may well have a napsack on your back sometimes, or something slung across your shoulders), and lights.
I have a hybrid. Yes, it would not really go off-pavement. Yes, it is heavier and has more drag than most road bikes. But, no, it is not a pain-in-the-butt. I love that bike for just riding around town. I can sit upright, which is easier for stop and go, and it feels sturdier than a delicate road bike, so it seems like it needs less tinkering and maintenance.

basillowe66

My thought is, don't buy an expensive bike in case you don't like the biking idea

Basil

VelveteenArabian

Trek. Trek has WSD (woman specific design) bikes. I have a Trek Skye.

Capt_Apollo

go to your local bike shop, they'll treat you really well. it might cost a little more upfront, but you might be able to negotiate a few free tune ups. and if something goes wrong with the bike, you deal directly with them.

also, you can probably get a few discounts on bike accessories, like pumps and lights. you definitely need lights if you're planning on doing riding at night.

thickerella

I don't understand much from bikes but they all are same in my book - you move the pedals, you turn wheels, you move forward.

This is technically correct, but yet still incorrect.

Yes, all bikes have the same essential mechanics, but they vary greatly.

One of the most defining features is the gears. When you're going up hill you will WANT to be able to shift to a lower gear, especially in places where there is a really steep grade. Otherwise you will end up pushing your bike up all the hills.

There are road bikes, mountain bikes, crossover bikes, cruisers...all have different feels, use different muscles, have varying levels of comfort and strength requirements. A bike is a very personal choice and not one to be taken lightly!

thickerella

Go to your local bike shop. Get fitted for a nice road bike. Enjoy.

Big question though - Do you need to see at night, or just BE seen?

To be seen, i.e. your way is lit by street lights, etc. you just need some run of the mill head and tail lights.
To see, i.e. your way is in total darkness and you need to light your own way, you need much more expensive headlights.

Then, you might or might not need a women's bike. On a hybrid or mountain bike, women's frames are just weaker versions of men's frames. On road bikes, sometimes they are just tiny versions of men's frames, other times there are real geometry differences. However, if your long torso'd, a women's bike will never fit.

I'd NEVER suggest getting a hybrid. Just the name itself is a compromise. They don't handle as well on the road as a road bike. They aren't as efficient as a road bike. You are locked into one riding position - on a road bike, I can think of 4 different riding positions off the top of my head. They are useless off pavement, unlike a mountain bike. All around, they are a compromise and worse than any other type of bike. And they are heavy, which is a big problem if your spending 3 miles a trip going up hill!

I have to respectfully disagree on some of your points.

I have a Hybrid:

http://www.eriksbikeshop.com/raleigh-2013-womens-detour-25-cross-bike/pr3c10941/product

I've put almost 60 miles on her this month, which doesn't sound like a lot to seasoned cyclists, but this is huge progress from where I started in my recovery from a disabling injury.

I love my Hybrid. I have done off-road with this bike. Grass, gravel, packed dirt...about the only thing that I get stuck on is leafy soft earth, but I think anyone would have trouble with that.

I like it because when I was starting out I was very unsteady and I felt more stable in the upright position, the heavier frame has helped me train in strength, and it was more comfortable on my damaged knees than the road bike.

THAT SAID, as I get stronger, I realize I am going to want a different frame style for every day use. One where the seat is positioned above the handle bars...but I have to wait because I am too heavy for an aluminum frame. I started at 360 and a steel frame was a requirement.

I do agree that getting a woman's bike is a waste. They aren't as strong as men's bikes, they are more difficult to put on a bike rack, and if I had known ANY of this before buying my bike, I definitely would have gotten a men's bike. There are NO advantages that I know of to having a woman's bike.

My recommendation is to go to a bike shop and try out at least 3-4 different styles. You need to know what you are comfortable with before you make a big purchase. What ever you do, don't get a cheap Walmart bike. Any quality bike is money well spent.

teamAmelia

A bike is a bike to me, especially for shorter rides. Just make sure that you have proper lighting/reflectors so that people can see you. I got mine from ****'s. They have a bike "specialist" there and repair bikes there, too. He took the time to go over some stuff w me, do an inspection, and adjust the bike for me. I'd go to a store that actually does something like that before selling it to you. I'm sure that they release themselves from all liability, but I felt safer and the guy seemed passionate about what he was saying.

If the seat hurts, I recommend this seat http://www.walmart.com/ip/Schwinn-Deluxe-Stress-Free-Bicycle-Seat/17248453

This seat is what I ended up buying for less than $20. On longer rides, I have to get up occasionally to relieve some pressure from the back of my legs where the seat is touching, but it's nothing compared to the pain that the regular seats caused - and there is no pain after the ride.

Good luck and be safe. :flowerforyou:

Hornsby

Yep, for a 3 mile ride to work, I would get a hybrid of some sort. For that short of a commute, it won't really matter all that much what you get.

A hybrid road bike (Not a trail version), will be more comfortable than a road bike, especially if you are new to cycling. Most people can go 10-15 miles on a hybrid before the hand positions start to become a factor in the upper body pain.

WalkingAlong

I would get a hybrid from Costco, especially if it's not a hilly ride. It'll be heavier than a higher-end bike but that's just more calories you'll burn on it.

mreeves261

Start here and determine the frame size you need. I don't think at this point it is important for you to get fitted by a professional BECAUSE you eventually wish to move from a steel frame to an aluminum frame.

http://www.ebicycles.com/article/bicycle-frame-size-charts.html#bicycle-size-calculators

Secondly decide what type of bicycle you are looking for. I agree with the other who have suggested a hybrid. Or perhaps you could find an old steel frame 10 speed, my personal preference.

Once you decide what you are looking for start searching Craigslist, EBay, want ads for your area, etc. See if you can find what you are looking for at a much lower cost than purchasing new. Again I am suggesting this due to your future goal. Also it will sting a lot less financially if you decide you do not like cycling.

As far as lighting goes, you need lights. In most states bicycles have to follow the same laws as motorized vehicles. So ignore the other "if your way is lighted" post because it's wrong. You NEED lights, not so much to be able to see, but you NEED to be SEEN!

msf74

Re: lights, depending on your budget, I would recommend Cree XML-T6's.

They cost about £20 for the front light & diffuser (and you can get a decent rear light for about £10) - they give really good visibility and you could probably be seen from the moon they are that bright...

ETA: for clarity re: pricing.

Capt_Apollo

Actually, a lot of cycling commuters in new York city swear by a single speed bike. They look like road bikes, but just one gear. Easier to maintain, less moving parts. And for a three mile ride, shouldn't be bad.

Bluizflame

I've been looking on my work route, and it looks like I'm going to have to make the trip a bit longer. The main road doesn't have bike lanes and the drivers are retarded in Vegas lol So that means I have to go the "Long" way, which makes it a 4.5 mile trip each way. Still only road driving, but will defiantly need 'brighter' lights.

It doesn't really snow here, maybe once ever couple years. I bring my food with me to work, so I'll either need to wear a backpack or have a basket of some sort. I haven't really ridden an actual bike in a long time, but i use the machines everyday lol I'm just hoping I'm not biting off more than i can chew! haha

I've been looking online at different bikes, and have been flabbergasted by the fact that there are $3,000 bikes out there! That's insane to me! I'm thinking of spending $200 max, and was hoping that maybe there would be some good black Friday sales! There's a bike shop right next to the gym I go to, so i think I'll stop by there tomorrow and get started!

Thanx for all the feedback and suggestions!!!

mreeves261

I've been looking online at different bikes, and have been flabbergasted by the fact that there are $3,000 bikes out there! That's insane to me! I'm thinking of spending $200 max, and was hoping that maybe there would be some good black Friday sales! There's a bike shop right next to the gym I go to, so i think I'll stop by there tomorrow and get started!

Price is why I suggested buying a used bicycle. You will get more quality in used then you will in buying a crap new one for $200. And you NEED bright lights NO MATTER what your path is!

Just an FYI, the following quote is from Nevada Law regarding bicycles.

http://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-484.html#NRS484Sec503

NRS 484B.763  Application of traffic laws to person riding bicycle or electric bicycle.  Every person riding a bicycle or an electric bicycle upon a roadway has all of the rights and is subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle except as otherwise provided in NRS 484B.767 to 484B.783, inclusive, and except as to those provisions of chapters 484A to 484E, inclusive, of NRS which by their nature can have no application.
(Added to NRS by 1957, 504; A 1997, 1728; 2009, 113, 399)—(Substituted in revision for NRS 484.503)

msf74

Price is why I suggested buying a used bicycle. You will get more quality in used then you will in buying a crap new one for $200.

I agree with this.

Getting a second hand bicycle from a decent bike shop or if you have a friend who knows anything about bikes getting them to help you buy one from Classified ads / Ebay / Gumtree / whatever will be far better than buying a new bicycle shaped object from a retailer.

Capt_Apollo

4.5 miles is nothing, trust me. especially if you have some kind of conditioning from the cycling machines.

EvgeniZyntx

Ok. Biker here.

From what I see you want an inexpensive commuter and perhaps you'll be doing a little more with it.

Get yourself a nice used bike. Don't worry too much about the type or brand but make sure it fits and that it isn't a pure road bike. Skinny tire bikes are a poor choice for starting up commuting. I'd recommend trekking/commute/hybrid tires. Please get yourself a helmet and a good saddle bad set up.
For $200 you can find an acceptable used bike but nothing new worth the money.

Go over to forums.mtbr.com and look around. It's the mountain bike community but there is are specific newbie and commuter sections.

Btw, bikes go up to way more than what you've seen ....

Capt_Apollo

Ok. Biker here.

you know how i know you're not a cyclist??? you call yourself a 'biker.'

Hornsby

Ok. Biker here.

you know how i know you're not a cyclist??? you call yourself a 'biker.'

Was thinking the same thing, but didn't want to say anything. I pictured a man on a Harley as I read that post....lol.

But what he said was spot on for the most part so we'll let it slide...lol

msf74

If anyone wants to know what they are letting themselves in for by calling themselves a "cyclist" this short video should help....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=47cGzu6-q40

Aello11

whatever you get, just make sure you can be seen by motorists...whether it is lights on the bike, on you or reflective clothing. Then enjoy the ride