Gearing up for summer

April 14, 2011 7:08 AM

I'm looking to replace my '70s vintage Schwinn 3-speed cruiser with a lightweight bike that would be more conducive to longer rides. It's an adorable bike and it has served me well, but I live in a walk-up building and schlepping it up and down the stairs is downright painful, and doesn't exactly make me want to take her out for a spin on a whim.

Something more functional and less cutesy would be nice - but I'd also like for it be well-made and relatively inexpensive. I'll more than likely turn to Craigslist for this purchase. What should I be looking for? Any makes/models/types I should consider in particular?

For your reference, I'm a 5'5 female. I'd mostly ride in urban areas.

Thanks for your help everyone :)

posted by blackcatcuriouser to Sports, Hobbies, & Recreation (4 answers total)

Perhaps you will fall in love with a Moulton: moultonbicycles.co.uk. (These are serious bikes though they may not look it at first sight.)
posted by krilli at 7:56 AM on April 14, 2011

I just bought a Specialized Sirrus, which I love. It's a great "city" bike, good for trails too. It's light, and well made. Got mine for $320.

My daughter has a Specialized Vita, which I think is the women's version of the same bike. Similar anyway.
posted by ecorrocio at 8:20 AM on April 14, 2011

Linus makes a great bike. Most models come in 3 spd. The frames allow for racks, fenders, baskets etc. They are steel, aka great for urban riding where potholes and cracked streets are everywhere. Although they are steel, theyre still lightweight and easy to bring up and down the stairs. They are simple bikes, but sturdy!
posted by frnzks.a at 8:23 AM on April 14, 2011

Cannondales of the older SH series are light, and inexpensive enough you won't go to tears if they are gone after you've finished your grocery shopping/cafe visit/etc.

Being American made, and with some really cool smoothed welds even; you wil be riding in style too.
posted by buzzman at 12:08 PM on April 14, 2011