Spec me a bike?

[Raventu]

Not sure what I'm looking at here and haven't really had time to do my research yet... but OcUK hasn't failed me yet .

I've not sat on a bike for 2 years or so and last time was for an excursion at Bewl water. I've never really cycled on a frequent basis but would like to start.

So, not ready for any high cash commitments yet, but want to start cycling - will spend most of my time on roads and cycle paths, lanes etc.

I'm not keen on the seating position of a road bike and like the upright nature of flat handlebars/hybrid style bikes. But I'm open to explanation and suggestion, the more information you can feed to me, the better.

Should I be looking at first-hand or second-hand bikes? Budget isn't high. Maybe £200 give or take if it is really worth it. Looking for something to encourage me into cycling without emptying my pockets, but not require me to fork out another few hundred six months down the line when I realise it isn't great for cycling on. So best price/performance ratio.

Give me an idea what I'm looking for, what I should be spending and what I need to know as a newbie/non-cycler trying to turn myself into a frequent - I would be very grateful.

Also, size-wise I have no idea. I'm 18 and 5'6" about 140lbs if any of this info helps.

Thanks to all

 

[Raventu]

Thanks guys for the suggestions, I'll keep my eye on the the Triban 3 and probably end up dishing out for it soon. All been helpful (and persuasive.)

Another £100 will net you a Triban from Decathalon which is epic value but you WILL get better for £200 2nd hand if you shop around.

Any ideas what to look out for second hand then? I'm pretty in the dark about the kind of things I'm looking for, and the brands to go for/avoid.

If I can get better for less just by looking around, I'm up for it - 2nd hand doesn't phase me.