How to Buy a Used Bike (Chicago version)

So far this spring, I've been asked at least 4-5 times for advice on how to buy a first bike. And little wonder, with gas prices skyrocketing the way they are! When I first decided to delve into cycling, I remember feeling overwhelmed by the array of choices I had to make. Scanning Craig's list, you are presented with titles like "Bianchi Campione, 53 cm w/ Shimano WH-R353 wheels." What on earth does that mean? Anyway, you can reap the benefits of the hours of research I had to put in. Without further ado, I present my tips for how to buy a used bike (in Chicago).

1) Go to Craig's list. Alternatively, I have heard success stories from people who went to the Working Bikes co-op. If you do this, you should show up about half an hour before they open, and be ready to rush in and grab a bike.

2) Bike type: something with straight (not dropped) handlebars will be a lot more comfortable and easier to control. You can go with an older bike with fewer gears (Chicago is flat, you don't need 21 speeds, but it's nice to have options), or an older mountain bike (the better for absorbing road vibrations/riding over potholes). In the last few years, they've also come out with hybrid bikes, which try to combine features of mountain/road bikes.

3) Brand: Avoid department store bikes (Huffy, Magna). They will be extremely heavy and have shoddier parts. I am a fan of (relatively) cheap Schwinns and Giants. Expensive brands which scream "steal me" include: Specialized, Trek, Cannondale, Diamondback

4) Other features: if you plan to commute regularly, you should look for fenders (essential in rain) and may want to consider a rear rack. You can also get clip-on fenders cheaply.

5) When you test ride the bike: Do the gears shift (mostly) smoothly? With older bikes, there will probably be some lag time/crunching noises. Hopefully you can lube the chain to ease that. Are the brakes responsive/pads not worn out? Press down on the tires, are they rock hard? Lift up the bike and spin one wheel at a time, does it spin freely/not rub up against brake pads? Is the wheel true/not wobbling side to side?

6) Buy a helmet and a decent U-lock (cable locks are fairly useless). There are tons of bike shops, but the cheapest place for parts that I've seen is Irv's in Pilsen. Plus, Henry is super nice. Check the Chicago bike shop directory and click "city only" at the top to narrow by location boundaries. If you ever bike at night, bike with front & rear lights.

My first time biking in traffic was one of the scariest experiences of my life. Don't let that deter you! Chicago is marked with lots of bike lanes, and the drivers are courteous for the most part. Also, biking along the lake shore path is one of the best feelings EVER.

See you at Critical Mass.