On the lookout for a cheap mtb

[Holdsworth]

When I return to college in September, I will be commuting by bike to Crewe railway station and then catching the train to Stoke and walking from there. I will therefore need a cheap and cheerful bike to leave at the station that will not be as appealing to thieves, and not a huge loss if stolen, not as bad as having my road bike nicked anyway.

I am looking at getting a cheap mtb from the local paper or eBay and adding slicks for road use plus rack (which I have) and m'guards, looking to spend something in the region of £30 on one initially to get me the 2 miles across town to the station.

Is this a sensible course of action to take? I could also do with something to get me about on my commute to work (9 miles ATM) for when my roadie goes in for a respray sometime soon.

 

[david1701]

I ride 4 miles each way (1 up 1 down hill) on a freecycle mtb, be prepared for it needing a bit of work though. I had to swap the bars too flats (bmx bars wtf?) and a new crank arm (so badly worn it undid its own bolt while pedalling).

Other than those two things its just had oil and some cleaning

 

[david1701]

though I'm planning to add bar ends and slicks

 

[Alembicbassman]

Old MTBs are heavy 15kg+ if it's steel. Chunky tyres will make it hard work too. If you can find an old road bike you'll find the going easier.

An old 1990s Raleigh 12 speed with 18-23 steel or 501 Cr-Mo tubes can be had for £50ish. Raleighs tend to come with mudguard eyes so you can attach accessories to them.

 

[guitarpete247]

2 miles across town to station aint to far for an old MTB. It will also be sturdy enough to carry a decent rack and load. I agree that an old road bike would be lighter but I have a 1988 Saracen Tufftrax, with rack, that I have done the 7 miles to Ashby to go to shops on with no probs. You at least get the granny ring if there are any hills .
Go for whatever fits you in your price bracket. The tattier the better to avoid thieving scrotes.

You'll also get the extra benefit of a good workout from the heavier bike .

 

[Holdsworth]

I have an old road bike which I use as my main commuting and leisure bike, it is less than good nic and I plan to send off to Bob Jackson Cycles for re-enameling. I worry though it would be more desirable to thieves and a more substantial loss if nicked.

There doesn't seem to be any road bikes in the immediate area, just one or two mtb's.

I think the bike below might fit the bill, when some slick tyres are fitted.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Electric-blue-mans-bicycle-/330532539985?pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item4cf5464e51