How to get a bicycle
It made me
love my new bike 
"It took much patience, but after 3 months of scouring craigslist I bought the bike I wanted."
How I did it: I saved $300 which was what I wanted to spend. $100 from overtime. $30 from selling things on craigslist. And $170 contributed from my wife from "the change jar."
I spent 3 months searching catalogs, stores and craigslist. Finally, finding the exact bike I was looking for, a used Surly Cross Check for $250 and I spent $50 on upgrading parts.
Lessons & tips: I like to buy quality used bikes and get them checked out at a local bike shop. This can typically save you about 50%.
Craigslist is a great resource or ask friends you know who ride alot.
Resources: Craigslist. Bike manufacturer's websites. Local bike shop.
