The Suckiest Suck That Has Ever Sucked.

[newfsmith]

Check in your area for bike co-operatives, earn-a-bike programs, world bike programs, bike kitchens, bike labs, etc. Most of these programs depend heavily on volunteers, many will train you in basic mechanics if you volunteer.

I volunteer at Bikes-not-Bombs in Boston. Every Wednesday night I get to strip a bike, usually a cheap beater, but some top-end, older Treks, Specialized, and Bianchi. It really drives home the importance of regular maintenance of every connection on a bike. Taking a bike apart is 3/4 of the way to putting one together. As a volunteer in the earn-a-bike program, I get to help kids take apart their donated bike, evaluate what needs to be replaced, replace it, reassemble and then do any needed adjustments. It is really nice to help kids learn these things and get involved in cycling. It is my way of giving back to the cycling community and community at large, while doing something I enjoy

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Still trying to figure out what 'sucks' about any of this- sounds like a fun and challenging adventure!
Lots of members here have fixed up old steel road bikes. At worst it's a good learning experience that'll cost a bit if you make mistakes. At best it's a rewarding way to wind up with a second bike and will give a fine old bike a second life.
I would suggest looking for a steel road bike that only needs some minor work like new chain, tires, brake pads and cables- there are many great steel bikes out there at reasonable prices, because so many were made during the big bike craze a while back.

[sgtiger]

Add thrift stores and craigslist to the recommendations above. I've seen some decent steel frame bikes at Goodwill and the like for under $30. They usually do need TLC but it's a good way to learn about fixing a bike. Some of us have even found abandoned bikes in popular illegal dumping grounds and next to dumpsters/garbage pick-up area on garbage day. Good luck!


Here are a few Bay Area claigslist listings I found by limiting max price to $100:

Step-thru frame, looks like its in nice condition.
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/bik/875140081.html

Hardtail MTBs could easily be converted to wet-weather-stomper, commuter, or grocery-hauler bike!
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/bik/875164656.html

Needs a lot of elbow grease, but has a lot of potential. I can't tell what brand it is from the pic but might be a classic.
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/pen/bik/875375355.html

[Trek420]

Don't forget the Trips for Kids thrift store. Thrift store prices for bikes and gear and the money goes to help kids. How cool is that?

http://www.tripsforkids.org/thrift.htm

[madscot13]

i recommend that you just take your time and it will all come together.

[DigUpHerBones07]

Still trying to figure out what 'sucks' about any of this- sounds like a fun and challenging adventure!

I just mean the fact that I am getting sucked in, more and more everyday. It was my feeble attempt at a joke. I'm really having quite a blast!

I live in Chico, it seems like the Mecca for single speet hipsters, thanks to Chico State. Too many "cool" kids wanting bikes, so they are getting a little pricey. I really appreciate all of your suggestions. I really like the volunteer idea, then I can learn and take my time finding one of my own. Everyone wins! I have a real need to tinker in my spare time, I'm as bad as a my husband.