Poor Cyclist

[Jenn]

I am kind of struggling with the cycling world. I am poor. I wanted to start riding for exercise and to commute to work. I didn't realize how much fun it was going to be! Now I want to learn all sorts of things about cycling but everything seems very geared towards buying things, taking your bike to get tuned, having computers etc.

Are there any other poor cyclists out there who got a bike from a garage sale and are trying to figure out where to buy cheap cycling shorts? I almost got sick when I went into a bike shop and saw how much they cost. I was thinking maybe I could afford 20$

Any tips would be so appreciated. I feel alone.

I thought I was alone in the "cycling" world because I buy used stuff off ebay! I'm a stay at home mom that is living on Military pay....(need I say more) Anyway, I rode my husbands bike for MONTHS along with my spinning trainer my MIL got for nothing....But the clothes....OUCH....yea, it's an expensive sport....we finally bought my bike in March on sale w/a military discount and it was still over $700. It hurts initially but, once you have the basics you are good............until.........you say...hmmmmmmm wow....that looks good!!!!! It's all over!!!

[DrBadger]

www.sierratradingpost.com has a HUGE sale going on right now... everything that is on clearence is 70-80% off the retail price, and they have a bunch of bike shorts and some jerseys for $20 or less.... definately worth a look.

Keep a look out and you can get some pretty good deals.

[fikustree]

I live in Austin TX

[surgtech1956]

Ebay - I was afraid to ask who buys off Ebay - glad I'm not the only one. There are some excellent bargains on Ebay. I also shop Performance Bicycle, Bike Nashbar, Sierra Trading Post, and REI. I never pay full price.

[mimitabby]

Ebay! that's how I got my bike! and my first pair of shorts.

and LOTS of other stuff.

[madisongrrl]

You can buy a cycling liner short for about $20. They kind of look like boxers with a chamois pad and then you can wear shorts or pants over them. Very comfortable, versatile and economical.

[missymaya]

Ebay Ebay Ebay, that's how I get and sell a lot of my stuff and I'm living on a very small budget. Also, talk to some local riders in your area and they might be able to hook you up with stuff.
Another thing, and I know this is gonna sound kinda silly, but if your birthday comes around or something like that and people ask what you want, go for gift certificates to the LBS that you like. It helped me get some new tires and shorts
The people here on this forum are very knowledgeable and can send you to sites that give good deals. Don't be afraid to ask and welcome to the riding world!