What is so wrong with this bike?

Question

http://www.target.com/Schwinn-Dual-Suspension-Bike-S-60/dp/B00160JSLA/qid=1220127650/ref=br_1_12/601-6286881-0211334?ie=UTF8&node=368322011&frombrowse=1&rh=p%5F36%3A%24200-%24499&page=1

It's just a full suspension mountain bike that doesn't cost an arm and leg, like road bikes. Plz explain in more detail why such bikes are to be avoided. So far, I've never had any problems with Target bikes before.

I want a bike to use for commuting, and work up to 50+ mile rides on it. So I don't need an expensive racing bike, such as a carbon fiber thing.

Answer 1

Whenever you get negative opinions about the department store bikes, it's almost always from "true" cyclists or people that have had experience with those bikes.  As "true" cyclists, we tend to ride more than most people....and as a result we give you those opinions coming from a different direction than the average bike rider.  

Yes....bottom line, in the big picture, bikes from department stores are relatively c**p.  Mostly c**p, actually.  They ride, though, and it's still just as much fun to roll on two wheels with those bike as any other bike.....but.  

If you're just pedaling around the neighborhood and not riding longer distances or all the time, then those bikes are fine.  If you ride much, however, you'll appreciate the better quality of a "real" bike MUCH more, trust us.  Not only do they feel better and work better (and they're as much as 1/2 of the overall weight), but when it comes time to repair them or replace parts, you won't have any troubles.  Also, if you ever want to sell your bike, the department store bikes rarely go for more than $50 if that, if someone will buy it.  With a better bike, you at least have some resale value.   There are also things like warranties and other stuff to consider, but in the end, spending more on a bike gives you all around betterness.  But hey, if you want to give the cheaper bikes a try, go ahead, there's nothing wrong with it.  And if you want to step up to a better bike in the future, you haven't lost much money by buying the cheapie first.

As far as that particular bike, I'd really recommend you use that money either for a better quality hardtail or a cheaper hardtail.  Or, pick up a used bike like that from Craigslist instead.  The ultra-cheap full suspension bikes are like bouncy anchors....not very fun to ride if you have to pedal much.  That Schwinn isn't the worst I've seen, but it's still kinda that bottom-barrel full suspension.  The wheels look flashy, but they aren't very good, trust me, so if you get it take it easy on curbs and stuff.  

One last thing, if you get a department store bike, then get a knowledgeable friend or a bike shop to look at it to be sure it's assembled correctly and adjusted properly, most notably the cable housing.  The department store hired "mechanics" are notorious for making bad mistakes and not taking the time to set things up right.  If you have to spend $40 at a shop to get the bike as proper as it can be, it'll be well worth it.

Hope this helps.....and just keep in mind the perspective of anyone who ever gives you advice on anything.  :o)

Answer 2

I apologize if this gets long...

I am going to assume that you don't intend to ride on trails so will limit my answer to using it for commuting.

First, keep in mind that full suspension (FS) is not for comfort- it is to keep the wheels on the ground for better handling. Since you will presumably stay mostly on the road, each time you pedal the rear suspension will flex so instead of your energy going to the back wheel to move you forward it gets eaten up in the suspension wearing you out more.

Next, because of all of the extra linkages, the bike will wear out much faster. Cheap FS bikes will start to "fishtail" after a short time and cause numerous problems such as shifting and steering problems even if you just ride on the road.

Most of the components are chosen such that the bike has a "built in" expiration. A bike like this that is ridden occasionally- say 5 to 10 miles per week- will meet it's end within 2 years or so. At that point the bike will require maintenance that will exceed the value of the bike by several times.

I agree that there is no need for any fancy carbon fiber bike for commuting. I would, however, suggest that you look into a trekking bike. These bikes are designed and built for the commuter and might even include things like lights, fenders, and racks. One good example is the Raleigh Detour series. I also like the trekking bikes from Iron Horse, K2, Fuji, and KHS. You can expect a bike like this to handle almost any situation you might encounter in everyday riding and provide you with a mode of transportation that with regular maintenance could last you a decade.

Should you need more info feel free to email me or add detail to your question.

Answer 3

A dual suspension bike will eat up allot of energy. Every time you pedal the frame will flex and the shocks will absorb the energy that was meant to go to the ground to move you.  If you want a good bike for commuting you don't want any shocks  You should look at road or fitness bikes.

If you want a Target bike look at the Forge bikes, they are very good for the money. I bought a Saranac and was very impressed with it.

http://www.forgebikes.com/road.asp

Answer 4

Hears a tip from experience with crappy bikes: Never get a bike from a place that isn't a bike store.  Target is not a bike store.