Things to consider when buying a bike

Go to your local bike store. They may be able to fix it or at least sell you a used one. Support your LBS. Bikes from Walmart and the like are really just junk.

Walmart (and similar outlets) can only sell bikes dirt cheap if they are buying them dirt cheap or there's no profit margin. And the primary reason they are dirt cheap is because they are built down to a price using very poor materials and componetry.

Maybe they sell some better built, better made bikes too (at higher prices) but then their only price advantage is that they may buy in bulk and maybe pass that on. The other disadvantage is the sales staff. Bike shops tend to be staffed by knowledagble enthusiasts, big stores - not so much.....

Not knowing where you're located makes this advice generic, rather than specific. Here in NJ USA, we have a couple of "bike charities" that accept used bikes and recondition them for resale; the orgs often also have a program where young people recondition their own bikes to learn the skills in a "sweat equity" deal to get a new bike. The one near me, to which I donated my kids' old bikes is called "Second Life Bikes," in Asbury Park, NJ. This is no longer a unique idea, I think similar orgs are sprouting all around the country.

I recently sold two of our old bikes online as we prep for downsizing from our current home in retirement. I was overwhelmed by the demand/response. Now that I have been through the process, I am much more aware that in this current bike shortage, there's a significant percentage of junk being sold for top dollar. I took our basically solid, classic bikes, spiffed them up, performed my usual home maintenance on them (mech checks, drivechain lube) for the new owners. You'd need to keep in mind the old adage, "caveat emptor" ("buyer beware"). This "junk" warning also applies to what I see being offered as replacement parts through irregular channels. It's the Wild West out there now - those that are honest/qualified/etc., are, those that are not, not.

The pic is my 1983 Fuji Touring Series IV that I recently sold, ready for her new owner. I show it as an example of an old bike as a good deal. They don't need to be falling-apart old rustbuckets. Good luck in your quest. The advice you get about local bike shops is the best. Most shops are decent, some are great. As you say there aren't any in your area, there may be someone you can work with at a distance. But keep in mind, most good shops are overwhelmed right now, too.

So advice is useful - some facts the OP mentioned.

NO local bike shop. Walmart available, likely where brakes bought since they have them.
Wanting to spend less than $200.
Doesn't want road or cruiser/beach bike.
Really likes current bike with wheel bearing problem.
Current is likely a comfort/hybrid/crossover with non-aggressive tire because concerned about usage on gravel road.
Recreational riding so far for fun/exercise, basic usage.

heather9986hg wrote: »

What are some things I need to look for buying both new or used bikes? This one I really like I don't know how to describe it.
I think it's like a mountain bike the handles are straight? I don't like the curled handle bars. I don't think I like "cruiser bikes" I'm 5 foot 7 and female

First, determine what you want to do with the bicycle.

Do you want to ride gravel roads? Trails? Paved roads?
Do you want to commute?
Do you want to travel and tour?
Do you want to participate in events?


Next, what options do you have available? Are there bicycle shops in your area? Are there sporting goods shops which sell bicycles? Is there a cycling club in your area? Are there places where you can rent bicycles?

Renting bicycles is an option to allow you to try different bicycles and see what you might like.
Or see if you can borrow a bicycle or two from friends for a ride or two.

It's good to try a few options before buying so that you can make a list of things you like or dislike.