Anyone here know bikes? (bicycles, not motor)

[Taverner]

I'm looking for a good/fast commuter style bike that screams. Any suggestions?

[NightWatcher]

1. retro, man, go retro

on edit:

I dont know crap about bikes, I have a Mongoose I got from Target or WallyWorld a few years ago. I've replaced the tires and tubes, and it works fine for me, but I dont peddle too many miles a month. I just screw off riding around downtown every once in a while.

[Taverner]

2. Don't want any nasty ass chafing

:P

[HopeHoops]

3. It depends on the terrain.

If you have a nice smooth paved bike lane, just look for the most narrow tires you can find. Mountain bikes suck for long-distance speed riding. Also, if you're a guy, get one of those seats with the open front for the nuts.

[Beer Snob-50]

4. i have a mountain bike

and got hybrid tires for a 42 mile bike ride i am going on in a couple of weeks.

[HopeHoops]

7. I have one too, and they are great for climbing hills - they just suck at speed touring.

It isn't just the tires either - it is the gearing, posture, frame configuration, etc. They just aren't built for speed - they're built for, well doing what mountain bikes do!

On the OTHER hand, bikes built for speed suck on anything but smooth pavement.

[Beer Snob-50]

8. i am doing the 5 boro nyc bike tour.

it is not going to be fast going, and i don't anticipate any rough going.

[flvegan]

5. Dual suspension mountain bike with street tires.

You have more rolling resistance than a hybrid or strict road bike, but the ride is better since nothing is perfectly flat. Also, your center of gravity is much better, so evading an idiot in a car or debris is easier.

I saw a Gary Fisher Sugar 2 Carbon on eBay for like a grand. Perfect bike.

Lastly, do your family a favor and invest in a GOOD helmet.

[old mark]

6. Lots of bike shops have used bikes for spring right now.

I got a used but very good condition old 10 speed Schwinn for $45, had it for several years now. Many years ago I bought a very old Raliegh 3 speed for about the same money - cleaned and lubed it up, had it for a long time before it was stolen.Get a chain and a lock.

Get the helmet fer sher, too.

mark