My bikeposts were well received and I plan to do more, but I'd like to reach out as to whether there's a topic or maybe specific questions about the whole ordeal that interests the users of this site specifically?
Like do you want to learn about tools you need for more than basic maintenance? Tips on riding in winter conditions and/or in the street with car traffic? Maybe which of the marketing buzzwords are actually important? How to train for longer rides? How to bike commute / when to bike commute?
Hit me up, I'll try to answer any question and/or do another bikepost about any topics that you're interested in and I feel qualified to answer.
How to find one that's really cheap but also not totally shit.
Get a single speed, avoid hi-tensile steel and get chromoly steel or aluminum. Get a new one online to save money, especially if you're kind of handy, but if you want used buy local since it's easy to find someone who just wants to move their bike at any price.
I'll toot my own horn again and point to another post I've made about what bike to get as a beginner.
Unless you want a bike not just for getting around on, in which case tell me what you want to do and I'll give so some tips on what to look for.
Buying used is a given.
I just need something that I can ride to work, use for grocery shopping and attach a trailer for the kids to. I'll be driving in a relatively flat city all the time.
Yeah that post should fit you fine then. I should probably do another one about what to look out for when buying used, but in general make sure nothing creaks and nothing feels wobbly, check for rust, see if everything works (do a test ride, use the brakes, use the shifters etc.)