Comment Archives: stories: Special Sections: The Bike Issue
Re: “How to Buy a Bike When You Don't Know Jack About Bikes”
Its too bad you are such a sucker for following shallow fashion trends in your total life.. keep safe withing your hipster parameters and make sure you wear the right uniform.. If you really wanted something good to ride instead of a fashion accesory, you would just buy a Trek 7000 or something like that.. I feel sorry for you.
Re: “How to Buy a Bike When You Don't Know Jack About Bikes”
Lesson learned? Too confusing/frustrating/difficult to find a bike? Hopefully not. Sundays are notoriously busy for most bike shops, assuming it's when EVERYONE wants to fix/buy a bike. Try a weekday, when someone has time to consult with you. Just as one wouldn't simply walk into a car lot and buy a car without a little research, a bicycle demands the same thoughtful attention. Fit, price point, and utility all needs consideration. Craigslist is extra hassle, trading time=$$. The folks at The Spoke have always been extremely helpful without an ounce of attitude when I've wanted to fix/sell/buy a bike. Heck, they will even sell your bike on consignment! Riding a bike is a thoroughly enjoyable experience well worth any time you invest into finding the right one. Dont despair, car driver, keep your chin up and have a little patience. It's worth it!
Re: “A Protest on Two Wheels”
Thanks for the great article. 2012 will be my third year riding with this group, and each year they become more effective and organized. Donations can be sent to the group as a whole on their website, or to individual riders like me (http://rideforareason.dojiggy.com/DESPERAT…). (sorry for the plug)
Re: “How to Buy a Bike When You Don't Know Jack About Bikes”
You should go back to Manifesto and ask about their used bikes. They sell some really excellent, low cost refurbished cycles that are just as good as the new ones but more character. There's also Street Level Cycles at Berkeley's Aquatic Park for cheap but cool used bikes, or Tip Top Bike Shop on Telegraph in Oakland for new bikes but A+++ service.
If you aren't planning on working on a bike yourself and don't have tools then definitely get one at shop. If anything needs fixing or adjusting you can just take it in and they are glad to help, often for free.
Re: “How to Buy a Bike When You Don't Know Jack About Bikes”
Enjoyed the article - you are not alone in your plight! Getting into the bike scene via purchasing a bike at a (potentially snooty) bike shop is tough! You might enjoy an old Raleigh 3-speed or a similar Mixte - sorry but I don't know where to find such a thing in the bay area necessarily, but my friend got one in Philly that is awesome, vintage, smooth, and not too attractive to thieves.
Did you not like the Public bike your friend rode? Their frames are hi-ten steel (I think) like the Linus, so not the lightest or best ride but they are stylish and functional commuters, if not a bit expensive.
Here's a blog I made about converting an old steel racing frame into a commuter, along with other snapshots of bikes that might inspire you (and your helpful boyfriend, ahem, to build something suited to your exact needs!) - http://mceuro.blogspot.com/2011/05/jills-p…
Good luck!