after kicking off my first cycle chic saturday post last week, i got a lot of requests for recommendations on stylish bicycles that are also affordable. surely, you can get a pretty bike for $1,000 or more, but are there any options out there for those of us on a budget?
one of the best ways to get a good deal on a bike is to search for something used or vintage. it does take a bit of hunting to find the right model and size, but it’s a surefire way to get the most bang for you buck. it also requires a bit of studying up on bike maintenance basics so that you know what to look for to assure that you’re getting something quality and ready to ride. since the topic of hunting for used/vintage bikes could take up it’s own blog post, i’ve decided to focus on new bikes at affordable price points for today. and for the sake of fashion, i’m also focusing on bikes with step through or mixte frames with more upright geometry. road bikes are nice, but they’re going to pose more sartorial challenges than the options shown here.
just keep in mind that when buying new, you are always going to have to pay a considerably higher price for what you get, so hopefully you wont be too upset when you see the prices. and i know there are more options than what i’ve shown here, but these are my personal top picks for the most fashionably designed bikes clocking in at under $1,000.
linus bikes: dutchi and mixte models, starting at $399
starting with our most affordable option, this small company based out of venice, ca offers a dutch style frame as either a single speed model or with a 3-speed internal hub. or, if you prefer, they also have a 3-speed mixte with a rear rack, which i like quite a bit.
republic bikes: dutch, starting at $399
republic bikes offers customization options to let you choose the colors of the frame, saddle, grips, chain case, tires, and skirt so you can build up something as subtle or flashy as you like. but be aware that these bikes only come in a single speed and weigh 40lbs, so this is definitely a better option for cruising about in very flat areas like at the beach.
electra bikes: ticino models, starting at around $550
these stunning bikes come in a larger range of speeds than any of the other bikes in this post. starting with 7 and going all the way up to 20 speeds with an aluminum frame, they’re probably the most lightweight and functional option, especially for those of you living in hilly terrains like san francisco, but you will have to pay extra for more gears.
raleigh: roadster classic, around $520
from the company best known for their classic vintage roadsters made in england, comes this updated version of a timeless standby. the ladies model comes with an internal 3-speed hub, great for a nice weekend ride around town.
globe cycles: live mixtes starting at $580
a more mass-produced bicycle owned by the parent-company, specialized, you can expect to get a solid bike at a very affordable price point. this mixte bike comes in either a single speed or 8-speed model with a matching front basket rack to tote around your purse and other goodies.
bowery lane bicycles: breukelen, starting at $695
based out of new york, bowery lane bicycles offer this simple black bike in both a single speed or 3-speed model with a rack and a cute wooden crate for carrying your flea market finds.
a black bike: starting at $950
another company based out of nyc, this model clocks in at $950, barely making the cut for today’s post. this classic dutch style bike comes in a single speed or 3-speed version with a battery powered lamp for riding in style at night.
