[Laneco]

Above is very good advice - let me add a bit more. Frequently bike shops take in bikes on trade, then recondition/resell them. They are not usually "great" bargains, but are often quite affordable. The nice thing is that the bike shop can fit you for the bike. Fit makes all the difference in the world when you buy a bike. They can swap out stems, seats etc., to get you fitted. On a used bike, you will wind up paying for these parts and service (new bikes it's usually free or very low cost).

Try to stay with something fairly light. Older used aluminum framed bikes are often very good deals. For a mountain bike, 28-33 pounds is pretty affordable for a bike with front suspension. The lighter the bike, the more money it is. I've seen front suspension bikes around 20-21 pounds. Even used and beat to snot they are expensive (like cars, light parts are $$).

For starting out, avoid all the full suspension bikes. Good ones are expensive, bad ones suck all your pedaling strength and have weak troublesome parts.

A used roadbike is THE bargain in the bike world. They are cast aside often in flawless condition because someone buys the newest best thing every year. These are the screaming deals. On a used roadbike, stay 25 pounds or less if possible. When you get down to the 16-17 pound range, they are somewhat fragile and frightfully expensive.

Best time to buy a roadbike is when the weather turns cold and wet. Like motorcycles, they are seasonally cheaper. In your case though, don't wait. Get a bike, some bike, any bike that fits you and start riding!

angela