Need Help Buying a Bike

Keith S. · 02-27-2006, 04:59 PM

Hey guys:

I'm looking to buy a bike (the heavy, crappy, mountain bike) that I have now isn't going to cut it. I don't have much money to spend on it though, which is a MAJOR drawback. I am looking for a road bike that I can use for a triathlon (I want to compete in one by the end of the year) and also I am looking in to trying to do the "Livestrong Ride" in Philly in September. Anywho if you guys could offer any suggestions it would be much appreciated.

I'm 5'9" by the way...

I've been looking on Craigslist, but haven't found much, and if I do find one I wouldn't know if it was CRAP when I got there to look at it. Thanks in advance.

ODB · 02-27-2006, 05:04 PM

Go down to one of your local bike shops (lbs) and see if they have any consignment bikes. Most shops are pretty helpful. Let them know about any restrictions you may have as far as money and what you want to do with the bike. They can measure you and get you set up.

Keith S. · 02-27-2006, 05:13 PM

Sadly I think my lbs is in NYC... :-\

ODB · 02-27-2006, 06:16 PM

How about this place?

http://www.cosmicwheel.com/home.html

Keith S. · 02-27-2006, 06:18 PM

Holy crap! I'll probably be able to get there...Thanks.

I knew I could count on you ODB!

ODB · 02-28-2006, 12:50 PM

Let me know how it goes...

02-28-2006, 10:06 PM

What kind of $ are you thinking?

Dogg Town Scott · 03-02-2006, 08:44 AM

For what it is worth, I think that you can get a heck of a bike for around $1000.00. Not to recommend any brand, but I got my Giant for that price and love it. It has great components and a good frame. No carbon on the rear stays, but the price difference with the carbon stays put it out of my set price range. My advice, like ODB's, is to check the local stores and look on the racks. My other bit of advice, is to research it like you are buying a car. Spend a little extra on the front and you will not be let down. Ride as many bikes as possible, most stores do not mind at all. They want you to be satisfied. I went into a local bike shop to look at getting a RANS recumbent bike and ended up getting the Giant road bike. So sometimes riding and testing will help you a lot.

I know that there is at least one bike shop salesperson (notice I did not say salesman, Silly) in the forum. So you can get lots of help here, if you ask.

But what do I know, I am just classified as a lurker on this site. I can't wait to upgrade my status. Hey admins, could I be listed as "Bike Guru" now?