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Permalink Reply by Steve Fiete on December 31, 2016 at 4:45am

Well there are plenty of options.  I would consider the following:

1.  If you like your frame, then replace the missing parts.

2.  Shop for a bike shop.  Talk to different places and find one you feel understands your riding priorities.

3.  Look at second hand bikes.  Places which rent bikes are always selling the stock which they are replacing.  I know someone who bought a bike this way last year and is very happy with his purchase.  You can get a 24 speed hybrid for about $300 - $350, and there are lower cost options.

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Permalink Reply by Tricolor on January 2, 2017 at 7:21am

Those are all wear items. If you like the bike as it is replace them and you're good to go. It sounds like you're wanting a bit of a change, though, so start looking at bike stores to see what kind of commuter you want and you can look at used/online options from there if price is that much of an issue.

Personally I'd rather have the hassle of cleaning cassettes every month or two as long as I can get at them in an emergency, but like brakes that's a personal preference. Regardless, full covering fenders and rack/panniers if you don't have them will make your commute 1000 times better at the cost of your bike messenger-look cred.

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Permalink Reply by Jim Reho on December 31, 2016 at 12:30pm

You might want to consider something with an internal hub. Low or no maintenance, great in bad weather, and plenty of gearing options available.

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Permalink Reply by mark stetson on January 11, 2017 at 1:51pm

I'd probably replace the worn parts if it was mine.

Lots of used options out there that will get you a better bike but still stay in your price range.  Here's a low mileage 52 cm Nature Boy:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/All-City-Nature-Boy-Disc-Singlespeed-52cm-V...

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