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Can you come up with a better SHTF transport option? Let us know if you can, but I doubt it…

Think about it.  What other machine is hugely inexpensive, human-propelled, can move sizable weight over long distances, on multiple road conditions and varying terrains, at reasonably good speed?

Buy used…Always!

Used bikes are everywhere, and with the exception of high-end road or mountain bikes for enthusiasts, they depreciate at an amazing rate.  New bicycles lose 40-60% of their retail value within the first year after purchase.

The main reason is because people think they want to get into cycling, buy a brand new bike, and discover that oddly enough, it does require a certain amount of effort to ride.  Too much effort for many and hence, used bikes in great condition are abundant.

What kind of bike? 

The best choice to bug out is either a touring bike, which is ready for racks and wide tires, and mountain bikes, even though you may not ride in any mountains.  They are typically built from sturdier materials and components, the frame geometry is designed for balance and carrying cargo, have wider tires suitable for nearly all road surfaces, and typically, lower gearing that will take you and your gear just about anywhere.

My suggestion is that you find a bike that has cargo rack mounting “eyelets” on the front fork and rear dropouts (that’s where the wheels attach to the bike).  These are integrated into the frame and easy to spot.

When you find an interesting bike, make sure it fits you.  Be patient.  Find the right size.

• Stand flat footed over the bike. If it touches you in your nether regions, it’s too big…don’t buy it.  1-2 inches of clearance is ideal because you don’t want to get hurt if you have to bail out or hit something that causes you to become unseated.
• If it’s any smaller than that, proceed with caution.  A too-small bike will be relatively unstable and can stress some of the components because you have the seat post and handlebars extended beyond the safe limits.
• You also have to be able to move the seat and handlebars up and down to fit you. If those don’t adjust to fit you better, proceed with caution.  I’ve seen a seat post that was irreparably seized inside the bike.

How much should I expect to spend?

A fully equipped bike that’s ready to bug out can be as expensive as you want it so I’ll take it piece by piece:

• Bike: You should be able to pick up something very functional for $75 up…shop around. Higher prices typically result in newer bikes with better components like brakes and shifters.  If you’re in the $200-500 range, you’ll get a lot of bike.
• Tires/Tubes: Gotta have these. Order online and look for sales.  Figure $20-50 for tires, $8 for tubes.  Search: “discount bike tires”
• Racks/bags: Try to find a bike that already has some if you can, because racks are $30+ new for both front and rear and bags can be $60+. Search: “bicycle touring racks and panniers”.
• Parts: New brake and shift cables, cable housing, and brake pads will run you somewhere around $70-100 installed at your local shop and they’ll tune it up for you. Do this unless you’re confident in your mechanical skills.  If you need one, chains are $25 and up depending on how many gears you have on the back.  A new chain can be a blessing.

Use this guide to learn all you need to know about getting the right SHTF bike for you! For more helpful survival guides and info, check out The Survivalist Blog.

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