Buying a Used Bike

Charger · 10-27-2008, 01:28 PM

So I've decided to start training for a triathlon and I need to purchase a bike. I'm hoping to find a decent used road bike that costs a few hundred bucks or less. I figure I should probably do a few triathlons before I decide to spend much more money on it. Is a few hundred bucks unrealistically low? Is there anything specific I need to look for? I've never bought a road bike, so any suggestions would be helpful.

Charger · 10-29-2008, 03:46 PM

I went to a bicycle shop today and all I can say is road bikes are crazy expensive. I went to a place because I had heard they have a decent amount of used bikes. When I go there they said they didn't have any used road bikes under $500, and that I would need to go to a hybrid to get anywhere near my goal of a $300 bike.

I checked out the Fuji Absolute 3.0, for $429 specs here http://www.bikepedia.com/Quick Bike/BikeSpecs.aspx?Year=2008&Brand=Fuji&Model=Absolute+3.0&Type=bike.

I just need something to train with and use for a couple triathlon sprints (about 6 mile ride). I can't bring myself to spend more than $400 on a sport that I'm not even sure I like yet. if I decide I like doing the triathlons I can see myself spending more on a performance road bike.

Pman · 10-29-2008, 06:51 PM

You may want to look at craigslist for a used bike. The trouble with going without a bike shop is getting the fit right. Fit makes all the difference in the world. You can have the best bike that does not fit right and you will hate it. I would stick with a road bike if you are serious about competing and not go the hybrid path.

So those are my thoughts.

RobLL · 10-29-2008, 08:42 PM

I ditto Craigslist, but take along a friend who knows a little about bikes and fit. Also if you know people who triathlon they likely know people who are upgrading.

ODBSGIRL · 10-30-2008, 03:57 PM

Also try your local bike club. I'm sure there is at least one in your area and chances are they have a message board or a web site where bikes for sale might be listed. Ditto on Rob's advice Let ANY cycling friends know that you are looking-someone they know might be looking to upgrade and like buying a car-selling to someone straight up is better than trading in. Good luck!