New to DC and looking to upgrade

[Dirt]

Welcome Dave! I’d suggest that you look at Phoenix bikes. They might have something cool for you to discover.

http://www.phoenixbikes.org/

[KLizotte]

This guy puts together custom bikes on the cheap from new and used parts in Alexandria:

Charles Dewey
571-212-7231

I’ve never spoken with him but he comes highly recommended from a friend of a friend. He does this on the side out of his home because he enjoys it, not for the money.

[KelOnWheels]

Also check out VeloCity Bicycle Co-op in Alexandria – they may be able to hook you up with a used bike or help you build one.

[Tim Kelley]

What is your budget? Most new entry level bikes start at around $400-500 or so. If you are looking to spend less than that, a used bike from some of the places suggested above would be a good start. Or you might want to check out Craigslist.

Oh, and there is also Capital Bikeshare, if the stations are convenient to your home/work.

[dasgeh]

+1 for CaBi, depending on where you are and where you’re going. If it works for you, you don’t have to worry about it being stolen.

[DaveL]

Thanks to all for the recommendations. I will definitely make sure to check out all of these leads. re: price range, I can swing up to 800 or so, but I would have to feel pretty good about the bike for that price (which I know is pretty low, relatively speaking) to be comfortable. So I didn’t really expect to buy new, and I appreciate getting pointed toward the used dealers. Apparently shops in DC need a pawnbroker’s license to sell used?

Main reason for not going with CaBi is that the commute is really sort of a secondary concern… I can already walk it without too much trouble. I want the bike for fun, but I know I’ll end up commuting on it once I have the option. Also, the whole fundamental American spirit of private ownership and TLC for your personal property and all that.

In the mean time, have any favorite bikes in the lower price range?

[DismalScientist]

I think you first need to figure out what kind of bike you might be interested:
Mountain, hybrid, road/racing, road/touring/cross/urban assault vehicle? Do you want a fixie?

[Tim Kelley]

The other thing to remember is that when you buy a new bike, unless you want to do all the maintenance yourself, you’ll probably be going to back to the shop for support. That means when you are considering a bike, also think about how convenient the shop location is, as well as what your experience with the staff and customer service is like.

[KLizotte]

I walked by Hudson Trail Outfitters in Pentagon City this morning and they had signs up saying that all of their bikes are on sale.

Also, the Novara line at REI is reasonably priced and most of the major bike brands carry quality bikes in the entry level $500range.

[Author]

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