I'll be moving into a new house in 4-8 weeks time (settlement not finalised yet) and when we get there we want to ride bikes as a family. There are heaps of pathways in the area making it ideal for family days out.
My wife and I in our mid 30's, me 185cm tall, 90KG. Her about 160cm tall, 52KG and 12yo daughter. We also have a 17 month old daughter so we'll need some sort of seat attachment for her on one of the bikes.
We're thinking more along the lines of casual rides around the country-side rather than anything serious, mostly smooth surfaces but a bonus to handle a few bumps here and there.
Budget? I'm thinking ~$1500.
$700 for mine, $500 for wife, ~$300 for daughter - she wants a BMX and I can't see her staying interested in bike riding long so I won't spend too much on hers.
Giant gets a good rep from all over so maybe that brand, when do the old 2013 stock go into clearance?
Any suggestions appreciated, and if my budget is lacking let me know too.
EDIT: Will be living in Baranduda VIC (Albury/Wodonga area)
Wow, nobody answered, you must just about be in the house by now. Tour De France (TDF) is almost on, most of the big bike brands release their new models around the TDF as this is the period of highest interest from the fanatics that spend mega bucks on bikes. The old models need to be cleared in the next couple of months etc, even if there isnt a deal on something I would haggle with a Local Bike Shop if they have something you like.
If you are just looking for sedate cruisers, potentially with the capacity to fit a kids seat look at some of the hybrid/commuter bikes. All the big bike brands make them. I haven't researched deals as I am a road rider but cheaper options come from sellers like cell bikes and reid bikes. Both of these guys are easy to find on the web. My recommendation though would be to go to your Local Bike Shop and get fitted out. There are a few bike shops in your area (I used to live in Wodonga back in the late 90's). Perhaps have a look on www.Bikeexchange.com.au to get an idea of what is around. Don't be afraid to haggle at a bike shop, particularly if you are buying a couple of bikes. My experience buying road bikes is that some kind of negotiation is expected. many shops expect to have to 'throw in' things like helmets and accessories like pumps, saddle bags and spare tubes with a bike.
Advantage of a local bike shop is that you will get the right size, there is somewhere to take it back to when the inevitable 'mystery squeak' develops, and they will probably offer some kind of servicing to tighten up those gear cables when they stretch etc. If the thing falls apart you will know where to go for the warranty claim.
In terms of Giant, they are a good brand but questionable if they are any better or worse than some of the alternatives like Specialized, Trek etc. In fact Giant make many of their direct competitor's frames in their own factory! Outside the frame most of the other bits on the bike will be a mish-mash of bits from other suppliers regardless of the brand name on the frame. Giant is probably a safe bet but I wouldn't be too worried about going Giant exclusively. I ride a Trek road bike and love it.