Peugeot? No.
It looks like the Peugeot deal fell through. The guy sold it yesterday to someone. So, today I went to this interesting little place at 46th and Hawthorne called the Recyclery. They sell a completely random mix of used bikes and parts in this two level garage. I tested out an extremely rickety, old Peugeot, and finally decided to have the guy build me a bike for $250. Apparently he's getting a bunch of brand new 10- to 15-year-old components on Monday from a closing bike shop, so I'm going to drop by on Wednesday and pick everything out. I picked out the frame today--an old 62 cm Schwinn one--and apparently I can get it painted matte black for $75 extra. I think the current finish is good from the standpoint of deterring thiefs though. It's very nondescript. In any case, this bike will definitely be of the commuter variety: probably fairly heavy unless I go for a single-speed. Unfortunately the hills, however small, that are in between Wilson and Lewis and Clark could be a little awkward with only one gear. We'll see how everything fares on Wednesday.
I think many bikes overdo it with 21 speeds. But only 1 gear could be quite difficult. West Portland is very hilly. $250 is a lot of money.
Make sure everything works and is well-maintained. You don't want bad brakes. And if it's an option, buy an airbag. Safety first.
I've got 30 speeds and I wish I had more. $250 seems a bit steep for an old Schwinn -- depending on the age and model -- but I suppose you're paying for the shop's time and knowledge putting it together.
Don't forget to include the price of rain gear and helmet... Well, now that I think of it I have a vintage 80s helmet if you want it. Coincidentally, yesterday I finally found your Assos bicycling gloves -- which are probably worth 25% of your bicycle's value.
Also, don't forget a rear view mirror.
The frame was only $50. The components will should be nicer than those found on old Schwinns. I already have an old helmet that fits fine. Where did you find those gloves? I was really disappointed that they were lost. If you get around to it, could you send them? Maybe I can get some more use out of them.
You have 30 speeds and want more??
Adam, you don't need any extra gears. A one speed bycicle makes one good rider. Whats wrong with a little bit of extra work on the hills?