Bike Cost

• The low range is $80 to $300. Usually these basic metal frames are just functional, though often still stylish. Target sells low-range models by numerous brands, including Huffy and Forge.
• Sports Authority sells low-range bikes by Mongoose and Schwinn for men and for women that cost $100 to $300.
• Mid-range bikes cost $300 to $1,000. These aluminum or lighter metal bikes are the best bet for everyday riders because their higher-quality wheels, chains and pedals increase their durability. These bikes often also offer numerous speed settings, water bottle holders and other features.
• As part of its Comfort Road Collection, Schwinn offers its Le Tour model in five different frame sizes and 24 speed settings for $580. Performance Bicycle sells the Dahon Vitesse bike that folds up in 15 seconds for $409.
• High-end bikes cost $1,000 and higher. These models are usually made of the lightest metals, including carbon and titanium, and are designed for more rigorous, everyday use or light competition. Riders can build their own model in a store or online by choosing from several different frame sizes, colors and wheel type.
• Trek offers a wide variety of bikes for commuting and touring at an average of $1,000, though some bikes from the geometrically sound Pilot series models cost more than $3,000. Trek also sells tandem bikes, or those for two riders, from $660 to $3,630.

• Most bikes have at least a one-year warranty on the frame and a partial warranty on moveable parts, like chains and pedals, though models in the mid- and high-range often have limited lifetime frame warranties.
• Warranties often do not cover normal wear and tear, such as paint scrapes on the frame or spoke damage. Bikes bought at specialty stores often include an in-house repair plan, whereas large discount sports outlets typically do not provide repair service or reimburse customers for it.
• Bikes bought online usually require self-assembly, while bikes available in stores can be bought pre-assembled. Buying online also does not provide riders with a test ride, whereas most bike specialty shops actually encourage customers to take a test ride before committing to certain model.

• Safety gear is essential for daily riders, especially commuters who may navigate busy intersections. Performance Bike sells a wide variety of helmets in an average range of $30 to $40, though some are high as $130 for the flashy red-and-black Bell Sweep R Road Helmet with 20 head vents.
• Riding shoes are more for competitive riders, though leisure riders certainly benefit from the better grip they offer on the pedals. Performance Bike sells specialty shoes from Forte, Diadora and Sidi for men and women at $45 to $100.

• Buying a used bike can be an economical choice for casual riders or even daily commuters. Bicycle Universe offers tips on buying and maintaining a used bike. EBay sells used bikes and equipment.

• The National Bicycle Dealers Association offers general buying tips, including options on the type, size and function of bike styles. The NBDA and Consumer Reports also recommend buying from specialty bike shops versus mass retailers because they allow test rides more often and have more knowledgeable staff.
• Epinons.com offers more than 11,000 reviews categorized by brand, price range and frame material.
• To shop from among hundreds of bike models at discount retailers, find a Target or Sports Authority near you.

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