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. |