Need Help - Is this a good bike?

SAMSON25

Hey! I'm in the market for a hybrid bike but am completely new to biking and therefore know very little about bikes, components, etc. I decided on a hybrid because I plan to use the bike for rides after work (maybe an hour or so) and possibly longer treks on the weekends. I also chose this style for the versatility and comfort.

http://www.schwinnbikes.com/catalog/product/view/id/14853/s/2012-dsb/category/149/

My main concerns are:

1. Does this seem like a quality bike that would at least would meet my basic needs?
2. Does the price seem fair? (I'm not trying to drop a boatload, but I don't want to buy junk either)

I appreciate anyone's help on this!

wellbert

it looks just OK. Might get a better bike for the same slightly used. IF you are buying from walmart, it's not going to be assembled super well. A basic once-over by a bike shop (mostly derailleur adjustments) should probably cost $50-90 to get it in running shape.

parktools site also has an EXTENSIVE guide to just about everything.

Kupe

I had a look online and it doesn't give you much information about the bike, ie components, brake system etc.

I also went directly to the Schwinn site and that bike doesn't exist in their catalogue, which means it is specifically made for big box stores( Walmart, Costco). Now personally I wouldn't be buying a bike from a big box store for a number of reasons, 1. Care factor zero when they put the bikes together, 2. Not qualified mechanics putting the bikes together, 3. No knowledge if this is the right bike for you and your requirements.

In terms of cash outlay cycling can be equated to how long is a piece of string. I understand that you don't want to drop a load of cash however my best recommendation would be to find a few local bike store and go in and speak to them. Tell them you budget and requirements They will all be knowledgable about their range of bike and what they believe will suit you, take the bikes for a spin and see how they feel.

They will also ensure that you buy the correct size bike and you are fitted correctly to the bike. The upside of going to a LBS is that you can also create a relationship with them and you know your bike will be looked after when it needs a service or a little tlc.

Hope this helps.

SAMSON25

Great, guys - thanks for your help! Looks like I'll be visiting some bike shops. It will take a little more work/travel but should be worth it in the end. Thanks for all the advice.

Dahamac

I have the 2011 7-speed version of this bike: http://www.schwinnbikes.com/bikes/bike-path/2012-voyageur-r21-mens-14647

Notice that it is a Schwinn Signature Series which means that it is only sold through bike shops and not the big box stores so you will get a better quality bike.

My thoughts on the Voyager:
* It is a very upright and beginner friendly riding position for trips under 50 miles.
* I love the fact that it accepts fenders and a rear rack
* I've had to tweak minor features but the bike has been quite reliable for over 1,000 miles.
* Only one bottle rack makes me sad and limits the distance.
* It is a heavy beastie with a steel fork. The steel fork dampens rough roads some but the alum. frame even with a sprung saddle still transmits more of the road than I like.

I would suggest stearing clear of suspension type front forks unless you are mountain biking.

How fast do you want to go? How far do you want to go? What is your goal in riding a bicycle (fitness, pleasure, commuting, or training) These goals may overlap some but a different bike is really needed for each category. Thus I am forcing a pleasure bike, the Schwinn V7, to do the duty of a commuter. Does it work? Yeah it works but it is not the best tool for the job.

Best Wishes Bike Hunting.

cloggsy71

Don't do it!

This is (by very definition) a Bike Shaped Object (BSO.)

Read this: http://southcoastbikes.co.uk/articles.asp?article=NO_BSO

Save up and buy a 'proper' bike from a Local Bike Shop (LBS.)