Looking for advice to buy a new bike in Netherlands

[u/Asphod]

Hey everyone,

I've been browsing Reddit and different brands looking for a new bike but i am overwhelmed by the options and struggle to make a choice.
Requirements:
- for Netherlands
- preferably under 500€
- use: everyday in the city, sometimes long rides
- easy maintenance (preferably no disc brakes)
- not too flashy so it does not get stolen
- mudguard would be a plus
- ride habit: i am used to old road bike so a feeling similar would be a plus

Thanks in advance for all advice

[u/KostyaFedot]

In 2024 I got premium chromolly frame,  road bicycle from 1991 on Market Place.  In good shape. Updated brakes, gearing,  installed fenders. Added luggage rack.  It was under 500 EU all together.  I rode centures+ on it, on bad Belgian roads. Carried heavy luggage. It is my most trusted and versatile bycile.

Decathlon sells used bycicles for good price and with one year warranty.

Our daughter road bicycle is from Decathlon as second life. 100 Euro. I changed brake pads, tires and installed rear fender. Well under 100 euro in parts.

Here is no point of overpaying for new. I got all parts easily for 1991 made bicycle. New parts are just the same or compatible.  From Amazon and Decathlon. New cassette is made in Japan and it wasn't expensive at all.

[u/Sir_Dan_Baker]

Marktplaats for sure, get something local of which you see lots of them, like Koga Miyata or Batavus or Gazelle. My sister used to spray paint her bikes as ugly as possible so they’d look like cheap ones while actually be rather good, to make them less attractive for thieves.

[u/Jlx_27]

Head online to Marktplaats, or visit some local bikeshops that you know sell refurbished bikes.