Best commuter bikes

I have Ninja 300 as a commuter to and from school and it's good for that but as for groceries It definitely wouldn't help, I personally always just use my car when I need to go pick something up from the grocery store.

I stopped biking on public roads because of the increase in bullying from drivers. Those fat frickers don't like seeing someone getting exercise and helping the environment at the same time, I suppose.

Get a small hybrid or electric car for the roads. Much safer.

Get a used Specialized Hybrid. Cheap, reliable and easy enough to unload when you are done with it.

I would go with a single speed for the simplicity and price. You don't have to worry about having shitty derailleurs or other components and they're easier to work on. Mount a rack on it and throw some panniers and you can carry quite a bit.

JMO, but having a hybrid gives you a bike that's neither good on the road or off road, but a lot of people prefer them. I bought a cheap one several years ago and it broke pretty quick.

Getting into road bikes gets expensive and even the bottom end ones are pretty expensive.

Whatever you get, invest in a good kryptonite U lock or something similar. The clip on lights from somewhere like Seattle Sports are fine, and if riding in traffic, I would suggest a helmet. I have almost been nailed several times by drivers not paying attention. Also, make sure to carry a spare tube, tire levers, patch kit and a pump at all times in a wedge bag or something. Ortleib makes good panniers, but they're expensive (waterproof).

Edit: the bikes you listed will probably work just fine for what you want to do. I commuted mostly by bike while at UT and got to where I would only drive when necessary. A lot of the extras are personal preference.

I got used to a more aggressive riding position and preferred it, especially for pedaling purposes. I also did not care for the wider tire on the hybrid I had.

But, it is all personal preference. I am sure a Specialized would work fine for the OP.

Not sure how hilly it is, but Purefix bikes are stylish and comfortable and affordable. But only if you're just wanting a commuter and grocery getter.

Thanks for the tips! I've read that getting a bike with a more upright riding style helps keep the rider more alert in city traffic. Could just be some guy's opinion though. What do you think about getting disk brakes instead of rim brakes? Disks do better in wet weather, correct?

Wal-Mart

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getting exercise and helping the environment at the same time

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bullshite. I think getting exercise and helping the environment is admirable. What I hate is you people junking up the fricking roads at peak hours. You're figuratively saying to everyone else frick you my shite is more important than yours when you ride at rush hour.

If you're not one of those jokers,

I hope you do and wish you the best. Take advantage of the area the best you can. The D.C. area is a great place to live if you give it a chance. Also, get used to the red line being fricked often. Could be dated advice but it was always late when I lived there.