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Thanks. I know bike theft is a big problem, not too surprising given the amount around here! Where I live we have a cycle rack on our grounds, directly outside a flat, and still we've had bikes stolen. I'm on the 3rd floor so don't really want to carry the bike up and down every time, although there is a store room I can possibly keep the bike in. A folder would be ideal in that respect. Hmm. Another thought is making up a 'rat bike' so most theives would hopefully ignore it and go for the newer looking ones instead!
Mightyquin-
I used to have a Paddy wagon aswell as my winter commuter/lock up bike and apart from a few hills it was perfect for town I sold it here mega cheap to help lockdown cash flow but regret selling it now. Ratty looking but mechanically sound SSCX or 1x might be the way to go. £400 would probably get you something perfectly decent.
Retro_Bastard
Welcome to Brighton 🖐️ based on what you said I recommend a hardtail or fully rigid 29er nothing too flashy with fast rolling tyres and a good lock and a couple of chains or cable lassoos for your wheels. Nearly 1000 reported bike thefts in town last year with less than 70 recovered and zero convictions so looking after your bike is very much on you so yeah welcome to Brighton.