What bicycles would you recommend?

I just got a used hybrid off of craigslist. It was like $30 bucks and I ride it in the city on streets and also on dirt and gravel paths. I have no idea what brand it is, and it rides just fine on both. I’ve never had a problem with it. In my opinion bikes are like cars. If you buy one new, you pay a huge sticker price just for shinier paint, plus it’s more likely to get stolen. That’s just my two cents.

I recommend a cyclocross bike. They’re very similar to rode bikes but are made to race on dirt paths. For city riding you can swap the knobbies for regular rode tires.

I have an Independent, which I love. Many companies make them these days. One like this, for example, is on the more-affordable end.

You need to consider first your budget. Opt for a mountain bike with a hybrid set up that could go road and off-road. You may tell the bike shop to get you an entry level hardtail type builtbike. FYI, bike price is dependent on parts and components. Light parts will cost you more.

I LOVE my Electra townie with an internal 8 speed gear box
http://www.electrabike.com/townie/
Perfect for what it appears you’re looking for. The most comfortable bike I’ve ever ridden.
This bike is for comfort, not for racing.

Trek makes great hybrids.

Go to all the local bike shops in your area and figure out the size frame that fits you(they’ll let you try out the bikes).

I definitely recommend against getting a mountain bike unless you plan on doing mountain biking (which is a lot rougher than biking over dirt paths here and there). If you’re new to biking and want a bike that you can do some city riding in AND hit up a few dirt paths with I would recommend a hybrid bike with suspension (not any hardcore suspension, though- very low travel suspension that won’t compress a whole lot and slow you down when you’re on the road).

Other than that it’s just a matter of trying out different bikes and seeing what you like. There are a million opinions as to what bike to get but basically anything from a local bike shop will, for the most part, be a reputable brand. (And by local bike shop I mean eaxclude department stores that sell bikes).

Good luck!

I agree with peedub and elcho. Don’t get a mountain bike. Unless you’re going to get really into mountain biking you’ll hate carrying the extra weight around. Think about what type of riding you’re most likely to do, and what you might get into. Cyclocross and touring bikes both accommodate larger tires which can go on trails. If you’re talking trails with rocks and stumps that’s one thing, but fire roads and other less technical trails will be fine with cyclocross or touring. I encourage you if you think you are going to ride your bike on a regular basis to expand whatever your budget is currently. If you go for a cheap deal, it won’t be long before you hate your bike and want a new one. If you aren’t going to use it much, go ahead and spend a minimal amount. But chances are once you have it, you’re going to want to ride more! I don’t think suspension is necessary unless you think you’re going to get into technical mountain biking. Where do you live? Maybe someone on here can recommend a good bike shop. Or you can ask “Great bike shop in X city/town?” If you live in the Bay Area, PM me.

I’s suggest a Cyclocross bike as well. Redline makes a good one that wont cost you too much.

I have a sweet beach-cruiser. Got it online. Works for me.

I have a bianchi volpe which is a good cyclocross which you can use for touring. Its a great all around bike. also jamis has some good ones at a good price i think

My experience with a hybrid bike was that it did go a little faster on pavement, but it couldn’t take the punishment of jumping curbs.

@goony – What did you end up buying?