Hi all,

I'm looking at getting a bike to replace one that was stolen recently. I previous had a flatbar with 14 speeds that I was using for commuting in Chicago and a weekly 10 mile ride. I can imagine going for longer rides once the weather gets better. I have around $400 to spend (though less is always good).

I'm looking at either a new (with cosmetic issues) Windsor Wellington 4.0 link

or

A used Mercier Kilo TT link

Both are $300. The WW 4.0 is appealing since it has gears. I've heard the TT is meant to be good but I'd want to add a front brake cable and get a freewheel to convert it to single speed (I think it is fixed gear only at the moment), which all bump up the end price.

I'm happy enough putting a bike together myself (I think - I've done brake adjustment, gear adjustment etc. before) so ordering online doesn't bother me.

I'm likely to only have the bike for 2 years if that makes any difference - I'm moving to Paris after that and I doubt the bike will make it with me.

Any advice greatly appreciated!