If you are lacking a bicycle I suggest that you keep your eyes open at your local thrift store. There are always bikes at all of the thrift stores that I frequent, and every now and then they put out a real gem. I acquired my Fuji Espree 12 speed about 6 years ago. I was in the market for a road bike so I made sure to pay close attention the the selection at my local salvation army. Soon enough my Fuji appeared out front. I ran in and scooped it up for only $40. This bike was built in the early 80s and cost about $300 back then. When I bought the bike it looked brand new. It couldn't have been ridden more that a couple of times. The rubber nipples had not yet been worn off of the tires.
It has Suntour ARX front & rear derailleurs, Nitto stem and bars, a Sugino GP crank, Dia-Compe side pull brakes, friction down tube shifters, and a valite (Fuji's vanadium/steel alloy) frame. Though not an expensive racing bike, this bike is very light, fast, responsive and reliable. I would certainly rather ride this vintage 12 speed than any walmart bike.
The key to finding a good bike (or a good sofa for that matter) at a thrift store is vigilance. Visit your local thrift store frequently and get to know the people that work there. They will look out for you. You don't have to spend much time there, just drop in when you are in the neighborhood.
Today I rode my Fuji around the lake at Druid Hill Park.
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