General Discussion Triathlon Talk » First bike purchase Rss Feed  
Moderators: k9car363, alicefoeller Reply
2014-07-15 8:05 AM


6

Subject: First bike purchase
Newcomer here!

Looking at purchasing a bike with interest in completing tris. No clue where to even start with bikes. Any and all help is appreciated.

Possible models.

Not trying to break the bank here. $300 is around what I would like my max price to be.

Thanks!

Edited by zander4 2014-07-15 8:08 AM


2014-07-15 9:31 PM
in reply to: zander4


9

Subject: RE: First bike purchase
Looks like you are looking at the used market. Use various sizing guides on the internet to get you in the ballpark of what size you may need. Narrow the bikes down that you are looking at, test ride them, then choose the one that feels the best. Also do some research as to what to look for in a used bike such as but not limited to tire condition; chain stretch; chainring wear; bearing preload in the wheels, headset and crank; shifters etc. Be cautious as what may seem like a good deal could nickel and dime you to death. Bikepedia is a good site to research past models.

Then take your bike budget and subtract the cost of a saddle bag, spare tube, mini-pump, multi-tool, waterbottle and cage, helmet and a pair of shorts. Over time you can upgrade to clipless pedals and buy jerseys and such.

I think once you factor in all the essential riding and safety gear, you may find that your initial budget of $300 is going to make things pretty tight. However, don't lose hope. For instance, my local Play it Again Sports had a nice looking 90's era Trek 1500 for $125 that seemed pretty solid. Also check at your LBS (local bike stores) to see if they have second hand bikes. One of my LBS had a pretty sweet LeMond from the late 90s in the basement that was priced nice but it was way too big for me. Be prepared though that a 90's era bike may mean that you get friction shifters on the downtube versus the nice modern shifters we have now that are integrated with the brake levers.
2014-07-16 9:32 PM
in reply to: martindc1


9

Subject: RE: First bike purchase
Meant to add, for a while locally there was a 2009 Trek 1.2 for $400, so you could keep an eye on craigslist for similar deals. By all means go to your LBS and ask if they have used bikes for sale, as those should be ready to ride.
2014-07-17 5:45 AM
in reply to: zander4

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Subject: RE: First bike purchase
With your budget, you really need to take a very close look at the bike (you're going to have to buy used)… Wear parts, chain, brake pads, cables/housing, bar tape, maybe cassette and chain rings… Pivots and bearings… If all, or any, of these are worn, the bill can add up quickly. Look for a bike that is well maintained (clean chain, clean cables, no cracks in the housing, and generally clean looking).
2014-07-17 7:39 AM
in reply to: zander4


6

Subject: RE: First bike purchase
Thanks for all of the help!

I have found a Specialized Tricross bike that I am going to be able to borrow and ride for the next year. I feel like this is my best option even though it is not a road or tri bike. I imagine it is probably a far better bike than I could have purchased. As well, it's free!

I'm riding to do triathlons but I think this should get the job done just fine.
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