which one to choose?

[ginny]

Hi everyone... I am moving close enough to my (new - hopefully) job to commute on a bike! I work at a university, so my chances of getting my bike stolen are probably pretty high. I have been looking on ebay and Craig's list (I don't want to buy from the latter because I think people sell a lot of stolen bikes there). Anyhoo... ideas on cheap-ish commuters? Where to look? LBS? They seem pretty expensive and also would prefer to sell me something new. Best locks? Best panniers? Best rack to put the panniers on? I'm so excited that I will be able to ride to work soon! - BTW, I'm totally jumping the gun on saying I already have the job, but it really does look like a sure thing... keep fingers and toes crossed for me. If anyone has a 52 cm or 50 cm commuter that I can at least put cyclocross tires on, I'm totally interested!

[KnottedYet]

Are you looking for new bikes or used ones?

Or both?

New, I always recommend the Kona Smoke ($350) or Kona Dew ($400). I'm pretty boring and predictable that way. (Smoke is an awesome commuter. Just saying...)
Used, anything that feels good and meets your budget! Girly-looking bikes are less likely to be stolen, but that's no guarantee of safety.

If you have a Bike Kitchen or Bike Works or other bike-assistance program near you that sells refurbished bikes to fund their program, I'd definitely look into that! http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=24656

[Blueberry]

Could you get a folding bike, and take it inside with you? That's probably the safest way to go. Otherwise, I use a mini U around the rear wheel *inside the triangle* (see Sheldon Brown's locking explanation), and separately cable lock the frame and front wheel to the rack. I take all computers, etc. inside with me.

As far as panniers, it depends on whether you will be a fair weather commuter or an all weather commuter. If the former, I really like the plain grocery bag panniers - just dump stuff in and go. If the latter - ortlieb stuff and arkel stuff rocks.

Good luck on the job!!!

Edited to add: Many ebay bikes are stolen too. The key, I think, is to talk to the seller. When I've sold bikes on Craigs, I've been willing to provide at least a copy of the original purchase receipts, and my shop guys can vouch for me...

CA

[Melalvai]

I really like getting a used bike first. As you use it, you will discover what it is you need in a bike. You can save up for a new bike for a few months and then you will be confident that you are getting exactly what you need.

Definitely a U-lock. Depending on the crime in your area, a cable lock as well to secure quick-release seat and wheels. If you are lucky you have the luxury of bringing it into your office or other secure area. Still you will want the U-lock for other trips.

Racks that attach both at the seatpost and on the frame near the hub are the strongest. I've seen some that just attach to the seatpost and I worry about the weight. Plus, that kind isn't always compatible with panniers.

Panniers...everyone has their preference. A backpack makes your back all sweaty but builds muscle in your upper body--but otherwise is not ideal. However it'll give you a feel for how much stuff you need to carry, when you are shopping for a trunk or panniers. A change of clothes, lunch, u-lock, tire changing & other tools...the space fills up quick and where to put the occassional extra...a book, folder, cake, laptop.

[ginny]

yes - we have a bike co-op - that's a great idea! I hadn't thought of that... I have been looking at older bianchis - because I think old bikes are so pretty, but it would break my heart if a pretty bike that I put lots of effort into was stolen. Thanks for the good wishes with the job!

[malkin]

I had a false start on my first anticipated ride to work because my stuff didn't come close to fitting in my trunk bag.

Make a pile of the stuff you need, figure out what you can keep at work, and then you'll know how much you will need to carry with you.