I can see it both ways. My daily driver is a converted $100 Walmart bike (the conversion kit & battery cost +$500). It’s held up okay, but I’ve had to put a lot of labor into it.

The only things original on it now are the frame, seat, crank, and one pedal. Still, at 4600 km, I’ve put less than $1000 into it, so you can get into it pretty cheap if you’re commited and your needs are simple.

My favorites for news: Head in the Office for US Ironweeds for New York Trashfuture for UK

My favorites for theory is Srsly Wrong and Pick Me Up, I’m Scared

Favorites for history is Behind the Bastards and Blowback