What hybrid (ladies) 15" frame

[akexuk]

Hello

[First post here - sorry it's a request and not a proper contribution]

The mrs would like to give cycling a go. London suburbs so a mixture of parks, roads and along the river. Budget is about £250. She is a total beginner. Given that I do not know much more than her (although I do cycle often) I thought I'd ask for advice.

I've seen a couple of bikes at Halfors, that may fit the description:

crossfire 2
http://www.halfords....yId_165534#dtab

and the subway limited edition
http://www.halfords....tegoryId_165534 .

But I wonder whether there's better bikes around for the similar price. A friend talks highly of ridgebacks for example. At this stage any suggestion would be appreciated.

 

[xxmimixx]

I wouldnt buy a bike in Halfords they have a very bad reputation in building bikes. Why not support your local bike shop you will get better customer care as well.

 

[soulful dog]

The Carrera Subway generally gets good feedback. See the thread just posted a couple of days ago for an example: Carrera Subway Limited Edition £244 Opinions Please?

The general consensus is summed up in ianrauk's post -

"They are excellent well made bikes, good for a starter bike and and also for commuting. Many people on this forum, myself included started with Carrera Subways.

Just one thing, if you buy the bike, don't let Halfords set it up for you. Take it to your local bike shop and let them do it.

I went down the route of buying 2nd hand when deciding to give cycling a go, but if I was starting off now and could afford £230, I'd snap up that Subway Ltd Ed right away. In fact, when I get round to buying myself a new bike, I might still be tempted even though I'll have more cash to spend!

Also, if your wife decides she doesn't get on with cycling, it'll be a bike you should have no problems getting rid of.

 

[Cubist]

^^^^This is good advice, heed him, for he is wise^^^^^

 

[Cubist]

I wouldnt buy a bike in Halfords they have a very bad reputation in building bikes. Why not support your local bike shop you will get better customer care as well.

My great Uncle Valentino went into Halfords last Thursday week to buy some Autoglym, and by the Saturday a pair of herons had eaten all his Koi Carp.

 

[akexuk]

Thanks very much indeed for the advice. This and the thread linked removed my final hesitations and I am getting the bike delivered. Will post back once I get it together with first impressions.