Folding or normal bike?

Best bike for commuting college woman folding vs utility?

• I want a bike for commuting to class and places around town. The college is in the middle of down town. I was thinking of a folding bike but I don't want one that looks super abnormal. The main reason I want a folding bike is so I can keep it in my dorm with me but I worry that it will make my rides up hills harder (and there is a lot of hills). I was wondering what would be better for down town riding the folding bike or just a plain utility bike? also, any common brands that I can buy in a local store? I don't want to drop a lot of money but I want a good bike.

• Answer:

  Don't need a folding bike--besides, just more moving parts to break later. Focus on getting something that's light--and also should have a removable front wheel. I'm sure you probably know about the removable front wheels, but in-case you don't--they have a little lever to lock it down (just like most seats these days), and release it from the front. This will help you to store it in your place a LOT better. Most places you go should have bike racks and things to store the bike anyway. Most walmart bikes are good enough to last without any work done to them for a few years. They do have people there that put them together, and if it would ease your mind, talk to the person that puts them together, and see if they have half a brain--if you trust they knew what they were doing. Can get a good road/mountain bike there for around, or under 100$. A bike shop for the same bike will run near 300. Road bikes for as much as 800. Bike shops should be avoided for anything but parts and repairs. Good luck