Just don't know enough

[Heifzilla]

Hey all--I could use some help with a decision. I'm getting a new (to me) bike for commuting and running around campus, and I have two options at this point. One is a 2001 Raleigh SC200 from a college student who is heading out of town; she's asking $215. The other is a steel-framed, 70's-era Peugeot mixte from a local bike co-op for $275.

I love my SC200. I paid around $500 for it in 1998. I have no idea what asking price for a used one is these days, though. Mine is pretty much mint, and I'd be happy to get $200 for it if I decided to sell. I've seen some recently on CL in the $250 range.

A couple of things: the SC200 is a tank and rides pretty rough. It's an aluminum frame and you can feel every single bump as it reverberates through the frame into your hands (and butt). It's also pretty heavy, mine is a little over 34 lbs. It certainly isn't a road bike, and it isn't cush. Still, I love it.

[jsmithborne]

Thanks Heifzilla--it's great to hear from somebody who has the SC200. I have been doing some research, and it looks like my old bike was steel-framed; I wonder if I'll really notice the difference with an aluminum one. But I'm planning on mostly city and greenway riding, so hopefully it will be fine.

Thanks to everyone for the advice. I'm thinking now that I'll offer the person with the Raleigh $180 and see what she says. It is in pretty good shape, but it's not mint. Just don't think I can justify to myself spending the extra $$ on the Peugeot.