Walmart, CT Bikes any good?

[Aj23]

I'm looking for a cheap bike, not the best. Just to go on some short bike rides once in a while (maybe an hour or two) I was thinking about getting a Cheap dual suspension bike from walmart such as the CCM bike for $109.99, would these be of any good value for the price?

[MtX]

If you can spend $300 at the local bike shop, then do that instead....the bikes are built better with higher quality parts.

[wushudrew]

if your budget is only $100, then you don't have much of a choice unless you go used. even then, you'd be hard pressed to get a decent bike for $100.

the bikes from walmart and CT are terrible, and you get what you pay for. however, for just getting from point A to B on the cheap, there isn't another option.

if you must get one from those types of stores, get a hardtail (no rear suspension). it wont be as comfortable, but the parts will generally be of higher quality than a dual suspension bike of the same price.

[thesober]

Eeks, $100 budget for a dual suspension, get it if you are planning on riding at a jogger's pace. As the other poster's said above, get a front susupension only bike, you wont need more than that for what you want to do.

[IronMac]

What sort of riding are you planning on doing for an hour?

[Aj23]

What sort of riding are you planning on doing for an hour?

Just a few bike trips for fun...such as riding down the waterfront in my area (its a nice place, and is very large), down to the morningside area, a friend's house, etc. Any bikes you would suggest at this range? Even the cheapest single suspension bike I found was more than this...

[dreamwalker]

Hey,

I'm into bikes, nice to see you are getting into the hobby.

I would not suggest the bikes from CT or Walmart, however, they are built using cheap parts and are very heavy, considerably more than the local bike shop bikes.

Especially those 'dual suspension' bikes that they have, the suspension is fairly useless, a real 'rear suspension' costs 3x the cost of that bike! This adds -considerable- weight, especially if you are going to do any light trail biking at all.

My suggestion would be to wait it out and find a good deal for a used bike from Craigslist, this would ultimately lead you to being happier in the long run;

A cursory glance at craigslist reveals some options;

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/666936808.html (Aluminum frame, nice front suspension)
http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/666646172.html
http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/666384622.html
http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/yrk/bik/661532471.html

[IronMac]

Just a few bike trips for fun...such as riding down the waterfront in my area (its a nice place, and is very large), down to the morningside area, a friend's house, etc. Any bikes you would suggest at this range? Even the cheapest single suspension bike I found was more than this...

For that sort of riding, forget suspension. You don't need it. I ride along the waterfront for hundreds of kilometers and I don't feel the need for it.

As dreamwalker suggests, your best bet might be to choose a nice used hybrid bike from Craigslist. The most important thing is to ensure that the bike FITS you.

[Oni-kun]

If you're looking for a mountain bike buy a hardtail, those cheap dual suspension bikes from Walmart and CT suck. If you're thinking about getting a real bike, the cheapest entry level bike would be a Giant Boulder or Giant Boulder SE, Trek 820, or Trek 3700. You'd be looking at around 300-400 dollars.

If you're gonna buy some crappy bike and it'll only last 1 year and every year you'll have to buy a new one why not buy a bike that should last you 5-10years depending on how you take care of it.

[CSR]

If you're looking for a mountain bike buy a hardtail, those cheap dual suspension bikes from Walmart and CT suck. If you're thinking about getting a real bike, the cheapest entry level bike would be a Giant Boulder or Giant Boulder SE, Trek 820, or Trek 3700. You'd be looking at around 300-400 dollars.

If you're gonna buy some crappy bike and it'll only last 1 year and every year you'll have to buy a new one why not buy a bike that should last you 5-10years depending on how you take care of it.

For that sort of riding, forget suspension. You don't need it. I ride along the waterfront for hundreds of kilometers and I don't feel the need for it.

As dreamwalker suggests, your best bet might be to choose a nice used hybrid bike from Craigslist. The most important thing is to ensure that the bike FITS you.

Hey,

I'm into bikes, nice to see you are getting into the hobby.

I would not suggest the bikes from CT or Walmart, however, they are built using cheap parts and are very heavy, considerably more than the local bike shop bikes.

Especially those 'dual suspension' bikes that they have, the suspension is fairly useless, a real 'rear suspension' costs 3x the cost of that bike! This adds -considerable- weight, especially if you are going to do any light trail biking at all.

My suggestion would be to wait it out and find a good deal for a used bike from Craigslist, this would ultimately lead you to being happier in the long run;

A cursory glance at craigslist reveals some options;

http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/666936808.html (Aluminum frame, nice front suspension)
http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/666646172.html
http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/666384622.html
http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/yrk/bik/661532471.html

if your budget is only $100, then you don't have much of a choice unless you go used. even then, you'd be hard pressed to get a decent bike for $100.

the bikes from walmart and CT are terrible, and you get what you pay for. however, for just getting from point A to B on the cheap, there isn't another option.

if you must get one from those types of stores, get a hardtail (no rear suspension). it wont be as comfortable, but the parts will generally be of higher quality than a dual suspension bike of the same price.

Great advice so far, dont' waste your money on CT/walmart bikes.. just get a good used bike from craigslist instead.

[Oni-kun]

Oh if you're buying something used make sure its the right size for you. There are many ways and even controversy over what is the correct size. For a quick and dirty way to get a general idea, stand over the bike over the frame, the tube should be a few CM under your balls, if its high enough to touch your balls its probrably too big.

The frame I use has barely enough clearance its an 18inch frame, but the next size down was like 16 and it would have been way too small for me so I opted fhr the 18inch.

EDIT: Also this here http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/yrk/bik/661532471.html is a great deal if its in your size and in good condition. This is a steal http://toronto.en.craigslist.ca/tor/bik/666646172.html it sounds too good to be true maybe though.

[lilgreek]

I am also thinking of buying a bike from Canadian Tire. I am looking into the Supercycle Medallist Road Bike for 299.99. I went and looked at the bike and it seems nice and light. I am not looking to spend 1000 on a bike I dont intend to use all the time. Maybe a once a week for a 5k trek. Anybody have any comments on this particular bike?

Here is a link to the bike:

http://www.canadiantire.ca/browse/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=84552444329 1317&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=1408474396673781&bmUID=1210091391204&deptid=1408474396672192&ctgrid=1408474396672200&subctgrid=1408474396673781

I have like 100 dollars of canadian tire money so I wanted blow it on the bike aswell.

[phyrefly]

I am also thinking of buying a bike from Canadian Tire. I am looking into the Supercycle Medallist Road Bike for 299.99. I went and looked at the bike and it seems nice and light. I am not looking to spend 1000 on a bike I dont intend to use all the time. Maybe a once a week for a 5k trek. Anybody have any comments on this particular bike?

Here is a link to the bike:

http://www.canadiantire.ca/browse/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=84552444329 1317&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=1408474396673781&bmUID=1210091391204&deptid=1408474396672192&ctgrid=1408474396672200&subctgrid=1408474396673781

I have like 100 dollars of canadian tire money so I wanted blow it on the bike aswell.

It's a decent bike. It'll probably get you a lot of flames from the elitists here, but it's been a pretty solid ride for me so far. I'm a beginner and can average 26-27km/h on longer rides, which is decent. It IS quite heavy though... 28-30lbs. Also, if you don't plan on riding on roads (as in riding with cars), it probably isn't for you.

I've put about 700-800km on it. Didn't bother with rim tape and haven't had a puncture so far. You will have to adjust the brakes, f/r derailleurs, seat and possibly drop bars. The pedals are kind of narrow, so if you have wide feet, it will probably have to be replaced. I'm replacing the brake pads with koolstops soon, since the stock pads doesn't have great stopping power.

If the medallist costs you $200, then it's a decent deal. You can probably find something better on CL for $300 though.

[Oni-kun]

If the medallist costs you $200, then it's a decent deal. You can probably find something better on CL for $300 though.

I second this. I personally just don't trust the people at CT and Walmart and the likes to assemble a bike. It comes in a box in pieces and highschool kids working a part time job put it together. If you buy a CT bike you'll probrably have to take it to a local bike store to get everything adjusted unless you want to do it yourself.

Have a look on craigslist for some used bikes or even go to your local bike stoer and look at some bikes there.

Again if you're not doing road riding you might as well get a mountain bike or hybrid.

[Talamasca]

I'm in the same boat as the OP so thanks for the info, guys. Can anyone recommend any good bike shops in the Mississauga area?

I'm looking for an entry-level bike, riding on paved trails and stuff like that.

[Oni-kun]

Bike dealers database http://www.tbn.ca/retailer/rtdb/at.htm

[TenzoR]

http://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/316297/

I'm looking at this bike, but it's quite an old frame so why is it that expensive? Is it because of the weight or component?

[Talamasca]

Okay, I got this Norco Ignite today at Cyclepath for $379. Is this a decent bike for paved trails and maybe some light off-trails?

http://www.norco.com/bikes/mountain/cross_country_ht/ignite.php

http://www.norco.com/images/2008_bikes/regular/ignite_brown.jpg

[IronMac]

http://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/316297/

I'm looking at this bike, but it's quite an old frame so why is it that expensive? Is it because of the weight or component?

Both. I don't know much about the weight factor here but the components are top-grade. XT (No. 2) and XTR (No. 1) are the two top levels for Shimano mountain groupo.

My bike is 18 years old and it has Shimano Deore DX which, if we're talking today, is equivalent to the XT above. I just opened up my front hub and it looks practically brand new inside (outside too) even though it has about 30-40,000 kms on it. That's how well-sealed it was. Other people in my bike repair class, with newer bikes but lousier components, were looking at pitted bearings and grease that's simply disappeared.

Gary Fisher is also a good brand...don't see a lot of it anymore for some reason.

[wushudrew]

Okay, I got this Norco Ignite today at Cyclepath for $379. Is this a decent bike for paved trails and maybe some light off-trails?

http://www.norco.com/bikes/mountain/cross_country_ht/ignite.php

http://www.norco.com/images/2008_bikes/regular/ignite_brown.jpg

you'll be more than equipped for paved and light off-road!

[Rx-87]

The Sears Free Spirit bike for $74.99 in "HOT DEALS right now" is probably the bare minimal of what one could get on a cheap bike thats "alright" without having to buy something "better but used".

Go check it out, but just make sure to look over everything and i mean EVERYTHING. Before you use it.

[Rx-87]

Okay, I got this Norco Ignite today at Cyclepath for $379. Is this a decent bike for paved trails and maybe some light off-trails?

http://www.norco.com/bikes/mountain/cross_country_ht/ignite.php

http://www.norco.com/images/2008_bikes/regular/ignite_brown.jpg

Yup, you're well off into exploring trails with that bicycle

[Oni-kun]

Okay, I got this Norco Ignite today at Cyclepath for $379. Is this a decent bike for paved trails and maybe some light off-trails?

http://www.norco.com/bikes/mountain/cross_country_ht/ignite.php

http://www.norco.com/images/2008_bikes/regular/ignite_brown.jpg

Thats pretty similiar to my Trek 3700. I think the Norco might even have some components that are better. Yeah its suited for paved trails and light off-road trails. Nothing crazy though!

[Rx-87]

http://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/316297/

I'm looking at this bike, but it's quite an old frame so why is it that expensive? Is it because of the weight or component?

Components and the weight. XTR is considered to be "top of the line racing" from Shimano and XT is "competitive racing". Both products are basically stuff you see on people who do mountain bike riding in terrain that people would not normally do and for racing.

The stuff is quite old though and so is the frame so its up to your discretion in buying something of that age.

[realBIGmike]

I got the CCM Falcon for $109 at walmart and it is awesome. It is not heavy as you would expect for the price and the suspension is good. I am only 145lbs and the suspension doesnt really suck much power like ppl say. If I am standing up on it then the suspension takes some power, not alot, but it is worth totally worth it. I use it almost exclusively on pavement but I luv how the suspension gives me a smooth ride so I can cruise along without my bike rattling around. I went for a spin on my uncles $600 kona with no suspension and I would honestly go with the walmart $109 bike with dual suspension. What a steal at $109! Even if I have to replace parts later on, it is still worth it.

http://walmart.ca/wps-portal/servletimagedownload?size=1&imageid=42409

[Mintmaster]

Like a lot purchasers of high end goods, people tend to bash lower cost items far more than they deserve. Sure, they're not as good, but lasting 1 year vs. 5-10 years? Give me a friggin break.

Look at what the OP wants and stop being elitist. He's not going off road on rim-busting, bearing-clogging terrain. These cheap bikes are more than adequate, and will last many years. I've never bought a high end bike and I've never had one give up on me ever. The worst thing that happened was the spokes needed adjustment after going repeatedly over curbs for fun and warping the wheel shape.

A cheap dual suspension bike costs will be a lot more comfortable than a high-end bike with single or none, and even if it doesn't last as long it will have lower cost of ownership and less likelihood of being stolen.

[radeonboy]

We still have a Supercycle brand (i think) that we got from Crappy Tire like 10 years ago. Still works great though, haven't changed anything lol rfd style. But Im sure these will last many years. It's not like he's Lance Armstrong who needs a killer bike.

But I guess like others have said dedicated bike stores are much better quality than what they have now at ct or any other retail chain.

[Rx-87]

A cheap dual suspension bike costs will be a lot more comfortable than a high-end bike with single or none, and even if it doesn't last as long it will have lower cost of ownership and less likelihood of being stolen.

Oh for sure, any type of full suspension ride will be more comfortable than a hardtail.

A lot of the "go for high-end" mentality really comes down to personal preference and taking into consideration whether they (the person doing the buying) feel that it is worth the amount being invested into such an item.

So if you are comfortable with what you get then that is fine. Bicycles that are bought at department stores are often looked unfavorably upon due to the "durability" factor. Personally, I have no complaints if I can get a fully functional bicycle for say under $100 after tax.

But I am adamant in my view in regarding those who are interested in dropping more than $200 on a bicycle in a department store, to visit their local bike shop and maybe get a bicycle there. As anything over $200 to me can be considered as something that is a worthwhile investment and therefore buyers should factor in more decisions than simply buying because it is "cheap."

[Raead]

I got this last week, been riding on this for some time, the back shock is really great

what do all the pro think about this one?

http://www.canadiantire.ca/browse/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=84552444328 6396&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=1408474396673782&bmUID=1212863655495&deptid=1408474396672192&ctgrid=1408474396672200&subctgrid=1408474396673782

I also heard Raleigh is a high end brand... not too sure about that myself

[Oni-kun]

I got this last week, been riding on this for some time, the back shock is really great

what do all the pro think about this one?

http://www.canadiantire.ca/browse/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=84552444328 6396&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=1408474396673782&bmUID=1212863655495&deptid=1408474396672192&ctgrid=1408474396672200&subctgrid=1408474396673782

I also heard Raleigh is a high end brand... not too sure about that myself

I really REALLY hope you didn't pay the full 399.99 for it.

[Kasakato]

I got this last week, been riding on this for some time, the back shock is really great

what do all the pro think about this one?

http://www.canadiantire.ca/browse/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=84552444328 6396&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=1408474396673782&bmUID=1212863655495&deptid=1408474396672192&ctgrid=1408474396672200&subctgrid=1408474396673782

I also heard Raleigh is a high end brand... not too sure about that myself
Im sure it weights 40lbs+, no good.

[wushudrew]

raleigh isnt high end, and the bikes they make for CT are quite bad.

actually, theyre terrible. for $400, you can get a MUCH better ride from a bike shop.

[djayboi]

that bike was on sale at the CT Richmond Hill for $175
would that be worth the purchase then?

i'm also looking for a bike that i can do a lil trail riding as well as pavement riding.

i dont need a $1000 bike but i don't want a cheap bike either.
i just want something better than average and wouldn't mine paying a little more for.

i would take your advice and check out craiglist on bikes.
i just wouldn't consider buying used before b/c i don't want to any suprises in having to fix any problems. Plus i like new. =)

[wushudrew]

in a word, no.

its great that you dont mind paying for quality - i suggest you take a look at the previous threads about what bikes to buy and start from there. there are lots of suggestions on models in the $300-500 range that are great buys and will be mounds better than whatever CT, walmart, and sportchek sell.

[Raead]

Im sure it weights 40lbs+, no good.

...you're right

I returned it yesterday bc it weight too much

otherwise the bike is good, the back shock is really great

[Oni-kun]

I personally really like my Trek 3700 hardtail. What I like best is its got a 48 tooth ring in the crank so it allows me to go pretty fast on paved roads when I need to. Most MTB's I see use smaller rings that are more suited for offroad climbing but I like my bike the way it is.

If you're looking for someone with tires more road oriented the Trek 7000 is cheaper then the 3700 and its more of a hybrid type bike.

Spending a little more is well worth the money. Don't settle for an x-mart bike.

My 3700 got out of tune after the first 500km or so I just got it tuned up for free back at the store. Runs good again now. You may pay less for a slightly inferior product at an x-mart. Sure its a bike, sure you can ride it, its a bit heavy, thats fine. But when its out of tune is Canadian tire or Walmart going to give you free tune ups for 2-3 years?