I need advice on figuring out what type of bike I need. I want one that I can use on either pavement or dirt?

Question

I'm want to buy a bike but when I go to the stores, I'm overwhelmed with all the different types and the prices vary so much and I don't know where to begin.

I want a basic adult bike that can be used on either paved paths or dirt trails, and I really don't want to spend a lot, $150 or less if it's possible.

Are there some good brands anyone can reccommend (or perhaps ones I should avoid?)

Answer 1

You want a hybrid bike.  That's a bike that kinda combines the features of a mountain bike and a road bike and can function as either,  but also specializes as neither.  I had a hybrid bike in college, and it was perfect for my short commute along some dirt path shortcuts as well as in and around campus.

Don't buy a bike from a department store.  They are all junk, not to mention sometimes poorly  assembled and/or adjusted.  It's just  a plain waste of money.

For $150, buying used  is the only other  option.  You can search Craigslist and your local papers.  Also, sometimes local bike shops will sell used bikes, you'll have to call around and see.

I can't really remember all of the department store brands,  but avoid Huffy, Murray, Magna, etc.  Schwinn actually makes some decent mid-level bikes, so don't be too scared off by that  name brand as the previous answer suggested.  

If you find a couple candidate bikes, post them on here as a question and I think people can help give you further opinions.

Answer 2

i suggest giant bikes...they are really good and really reliable

Answer 3

It will certainly be hard to find a good brand new bike for the $150 price range, but you may be able find a used one on craigslist.org in your area.  First of all, get a name brand bike; Specialized, Trek, Giant, or Cannondale to name a few.  You will want to get a mountain bike because they are good for both on and off road.  It doesn't matter whether you get one with suspension or not (usually cheaper without and less maintainence).  Avoid Huffy, Schwinn, or any brand they sell at major department stores.  If it is not one of the name brands listed above, don't bother.