New bike advice for mother-in-law

[kgreene10]

I'm sure that you, like me, have become to go-to guy in the family for advice on all things bicycle. I like doing it, but if the bike in question can't be raced on pavement, I just don't know enough to recommend specific bikes. Hence, I turn to you, the forumites, the keepers of encyclopedic bike knowledge.

My mother-in-law is an energetic but not athletic 70 year-old and she is ready to allow her old clunker to transition to the afterlife and get something nicer. She will use it for exercise only around Santa Monica and would prefer something relatively light. She is intrigued by my description of belt drive and disc brakes. She isn't a tinkerer nor does she posses any mechanical knowledge, so the more trouble-free the better. Her initial max is $1k.

After I described the pros and cons, she likes the idea of buying locally in Santa Monica. I can list the brands available at the local shops if that's helpful -- let me know -- but assume that they have all the big box brands and a few specialty ones.

Any model recommendations? Thanks.

[adhumston]

First thing that came to my mind is Spot Brand, but I highly doubt they have anything in the $1k range, and not sure if there would be a local dealer. Worth looking into though.

[redearedslider5]

something single speed or with an internal hub seems to suit the simplicity requirement.

[p nut]

Breezer step through IGH.

http://breezerbikes.com/bikes/details/downtown-8-st8

[nmrt]

this is what i have. this should fit your bill.

http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/Product_10052_10551_1149738_-1___

[kgreene10]

I think my lack of knowledge about this genre of bike has already reared its ugly head. I mentioned belt drive but now realize that these are probably all single speeds.

I think she will need gears.

Does that mean we are back to a chain and the only question is internal or standard system?

[mg2ride]

Don't over think it. You want be doing her any favors if you do.

Every major brand has a geared step thru for 1/2 of her budget number.

http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/bikes/model/sedona.dx.w/22235/84025/

http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/city/recreation/shift/shift_1_wsd/

http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/Product_10052_10551_1186022_-1_400317__400317

[pdmtong]

this is what i have. this should fit your bill.
http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/Product_10052_10551_1149738_-1___

step through for a 70yo trumps belt

I think my lack of knowledge about this genre of bike has already reared its ugly head. I mentioned belt drive but now realize that these are probably all single speeds. I think she will need gears. Does that mean we are back to a chain and the only question is internal or standard system?

A belt alfine 11 is probably $2500. get the breezer. chain guard. no offense but do you think a 70yo on a bike path is going to wear out the chain in their lifetime?

[alancw3]

electra townie 3I. 3speed internal hub with coaster brake. bought one for my 40 year old daughter several years ago and she loves it. relatively light weight with aluminum frame and pretty liable. like $600:

http://www.electrabike.com/bikes/townie/original-3i-0?g=ladies

[oldpotatoe]

I think my lack of knowledge about this genre of bike has already reared its ugly head. I mentioned belt drive but now realize that these are probably all single speeds.

I think she will need gears.

Does that mean we are back to a chain and the only question is internal or standard system?

http://www.LinusBike.com

Just got a Dutchie-3 for my 71 year old aunt and it is perfect for her to trundle down to the post office, and to the close park.

[Ti Designs]

electra townie 3I. 3speed internal hub with coaster brake. bought one for my 40 year old daughter several years ago and she loves it. relatively light weight with aluminum frame and pretty liable.

What I found out about people from Naples Florida is that they all ride really fast on the flats, and they all speak to old folks about bikes like it's a second language. It was really weird, we had just finished a ride, and an older couple walked up and asked about bikes. Instantly, the whole crew turned into the best bike salespeople ever. It was like they were explaining things to their own mothers.

[cdn_bacon]

Mine wanted to try a ride a bike at 73.

Bought her a Raleigh that has easy step thru and the sturmey archer 3spd hub. She bought herself a new helmet and rides daily around the block. loves it.

Paid $120 for it on Craigslist. Paint needs a bit of care, but all brakes, gears, chain, cogs are rust free.

[CampyorBust]

https://losangeles.craigslist.org/lgb/bik/5225226390.html

Warning: You just might find her giddy like a school girl and not wanting to get off. This had been my experience with anyone who I put on one. Perfect for those with injuries or anyone really, I love these things!

They are safer and arguably more fun across the board, the respect you get from cars is much greater than on a regular 2 wheeler.

It looks to be in good condition, and chances are they will take $1000 for it. It's a fair price.

[Ken Robb]

I agree that a step-through is a good idea and that she will need some gears just to deal with winds off the ocean. I don't think disc brakes are needed for dry rides in sunny SoCal. She will want to have her bars up very high sooner or later.