Does anybody know anything

[ocnblu]

My bike has been hanging in my garage since I moved to PA in 2003... unused. It's a Wal-Mart special (shows how old it is, I have boycotted Wal-Mart for years, I think I bought it circa 1998) Pacific Strike 21 speed. It has never been left out in the weather, so it's in great shape. Tires hold air, don't appear too dry or cracked.

Butt, it's too high off the ground, and I don't need that many gears.

I want to get back into bike riding again, but this time around I am interested in a relaxed riding position and only 3 speeds... a comfort bike that can take on moderate hills. Anyone have any exPIRRience or recommendations? TIA.

[Chris_Doane]

[ocnblu]

Thanks for the tip, Mr. Doane!

[Croc]

Micargi makes some pretty good bikes. I really like their designs, especially the retro beach cruisers. They have fixies, but I saw a 7-speed on their site, too.

[ocnblu]

Thanks, I'll look into that. I've been to the Schwinn (no-brainer fallback bikemaker) site and saw a couple of nifty ones there.

[Croc]

Thanks, I'll look into that. I've been to the Schwinn (no-brainer fallback bikemaker) site and saw a couple of nifty ones there.

All the mainstream bike manufacturers (Schwinn included) all make the same bikes from the same parts from the same suppliers. I don't think they're quite the no-brainer choice anymore, which I think is too bad.

EDIT: Micargi is apparently based in China, so if that sways your opinion, fine...I do know people who have been very satisfied with them, though.

Edited March 27, 2011 by Croc

[z28luvr01]

I'm guessing the Pacific is a mountain bike. You should be able to coax a relaxed riding position out of it provided the frame isn't too over or under sized. Have you tried lowering the seat and raising the handlebar stem on it? The seat should be adjusted so that your knee is slightly bent when the pedal is at bottom dead center. Then, adjust the handlebar stem till you're comfy.

If you can, take a picture of it and post it here.

Unfortunately, Croc, you're right. The company that owns Schwinn also owns GT, Pacific, Mongoose, Cannondale, and now Iron Horse. All made in China/Taiwan. If I ever splurge on a really high-end bike, I'll be looking at either the Italian makes or a custom built frame. I do love my old steel Schwinns - I've done four centuries on one, and I'd consider paying good money for a vintage Schwinn Paramount.

[Z-06]

If you want made in USA - go for Trek - albeit not all the models.

[z28luvr01]

Please Santa??? I've been very good this year!

\

[ocnblu]

"Face down, a$$ up, that's the way we like to..." oh nevermind. Hey it's got no pedals!

[z28luvr01]

That's because there are about a zillion different standards for clipless pedals and every cyclist has his preference. So the bike manufacturers leave it to the customer to buy his own pedals and install them himself or, if he can't turn a wrench, have a bike shop do it.

[ocnblu]

I really like the looks of this one: Trek Cruiseliner.