1st Road Bike help required ???

[woolley]

Hi,

I am looking to buy a road bike for the fisrt time but require some help with what to purchase ?

I will be using the bike 2/3 times a week and will be looking to do about 8 miles each time to start with then increasing this in the summer.

I am not sure weather to buy a new bike or buy a 2nd hand one or maybe last years model. I am looking to spend around £400.

I am a complete novice so any help would be appreciated either what bike to go for or maybe places to look on the internet thet may help ie shops/ 2nd hand sales.

Thanks

woolley

 

[Reece]

Do you have a Decathlon store near you? The Triban 3 is a highly rated starter road bike and at a good price of £300.

I don't have one, but wished I had known about them before I bought my Raliegh.

 

[woolley]

Reece,

Thanks for the info I will have a look at that bike. It seems the nearest store to me is about 70 miles away.

 

[smokeysmoo]

I would normally recommend buying second hand with your budget TBH, but, as you are a self confessed 'complete novice' unless you have someone who could go with you to view potential bikes I'd advise against it.

Also, even the most cossetted used bike will still need some tinkering, even if really minor, so again this might be a stumbling block too.

So with that all that in mind I too would point you in the direction of the Triban bikes. If only for the brand new bike/warranty/peace of mind aspects.

The Triban 3 will leave you money for extras like gloves, tools, tubes, pump, dare I say - helmet!!

Or if you budget if flexible the Triban 5 is also well regarded, and possibly easier to source as the 3's are pretty much sold out nationally at the moment. Although this means you've blown your budget and still need to fund the extras on top as well.

 

[woolley]

Thanks smokeysmoo

I maybe able to get someone to come with as I know someone who is a member of a local cycling club near me so a 2nd hand one could be an option. Where is best to look ?

I maybe able to stretch my budget a bit so the tri 5 could be an option.

 

[vickster]

Have a look in the Classifieds on here - where are you based? Someone is selling a Scott for £500, paid £750 a few months back - he is in Cheshire I think

 

[biggs682]

go second hand loads of choice and options .

where in country are you as may be people on here who live local to you and will be able to help .

if local to me drop me a pm and by all means i can offer you 1 to try if any of mine rock your boat

 

[Cheshire Celt]

Have a look in the Classifieds on here - where are you based? Someone is selling a Scott for £500, paid £750 a few months back - he is in Cheshire I think

That would be me can't believe it's not been snapped up its virtually a new bike but in no rush to sell it so it will stay there till it sells

 

[woolley]

I am in the Newmarket/Cambridge area but thanks for the offer.

 

[Peteaud]

Btwin Triban 3

Then the rest on lights and kit etc.

 

[Banjo]

I would definitely look at last years models.You can save a lot or get a better bike for your bucks.

2 nd hand is an option but not one I would go for.You have no idea if the bike has been abused in any way.

Most important thing is to get the right size frame. A bike thats too big/small will never be enjoyable to ride.

If you live in a hilly area look for a compact double or triple. A racing double is tough to ride uphill as a beginner.

Good Luck

PS This site may help you choose a frame size. http://www.tredz.co.uk/guides/road-bike-size-guide/

 

[SS Retro]

Another vote for last yeas models which will be 2012 bikes check the big on line places wiggle, wheelies, chain reaction ect for good discount you could pick up a £800 bike for £400 with good searching.

 

[Sittingduck]

Second hand is all well and good but you need to find something thats right and is the correct size, close by (pref) and has been looked after... not always easy. Triban 3 is unbeatable for the money.

 

[BrumJim]

Newmarket area? Go single speed. You haven't got any hills!

Seriously, Triban 3 plus a bit extra for equipment and upgrades is the best shot at your budget. Look at £600+ for a decent robust road bike.

Your mileage aim seems good, particularly if this involves commuting, as this doesn't waste any time during the day. However before long you will be looking at 20 miles, then 50, then 70, then 100 as a good run. This cycling lark can get to you!