Another "Help me buy a bike" thread

[Lp4k3]

Hi guys, I'm new to the forum and have been reading through some of the threads but can't really find the answer I'm looking for.

I commute roughly 7 miles a day, 5 days a week and like going out for a cycle on one of my days off (about 20-30 miles) the terrain is mostly flat apart from some unchallenging 'hills'

I live in Swansea so I have Halfords, Tredz, GoOutdoors and Wheelies near me (I think that's all?!) and have around £350 to spend. I am currently using a Carrera Vulcan MTB and want to buy a road bike. I have no idea what to look out for as I have never been on one before. I don't want to buy online as I would rather sit and try one out before purchase.

Can anyone help me out please. I am completely open to suggestions and all help is very much appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[musa]

probably might want to start with the triban 3 for 300 quid then the change for bits and piece like lights shorts etc

 

[Cyclist33]

Go Outdoors sell some Raleigh road bikes near me. They look none too shabby for the budget...

http://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/airlite-100-p152963

This one's on sale at the mo?

 

[vickster]

Tredz have the 2012 Airlite 100 for 330, certainly worth a look http://www.tredz.co.uk/.Raleigh-Airlite-100-Road-2012_50523.htm

Good choice if you can't get to Decathlon (or find stock)...or this from Halfords (and you can get 10% off if you join British Cycling) http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/..._productId_810691_langId_-1_categoryId_165710


otherwise second hand is always an option if you feel confident

 

[Robwiz]

B'twin Triban 3 from Decathlon is the stand-out road bike around £300. They do mail order, but be sure to check on sizing - do a search, because it's odd!

Otherwise, the Carrera Tour de France is on offer from Halfords at £300. It's a decent bike for the money.

 

[jifdave]

i have a triban and you wont regret it.

http://www.cyclingscotland.org/news/cycling-active-btwin-triban-3-review/

 

[Lp4k3]

Everyone on these forums recommends the Triban. I would prefer to sit on one and give it a test before I buy it and I have no stores anywhere near my location. I can't ignore the advice of so many people on the other hand.

 

[Lp4k3]

They are out of stock online and tell me that the Surrey store will deliver it for me but they are also out of stock!! Shame really. Reviews are all very high

 

[Peteaud]

They are out of stock online and tell me that the Surrey store will deliver it for me but they are also out of stock!! Shame really. Reviews are all very high

Try Reading.

(Berkshire not a book )

 

[Lp4k3]

"Product Unavailable" in every single store.... oh well, that puts an end to that then.

 

[Lp4k3]

Sticking to Halfords now for a minute; i am torn between three bikes, One for Money, One for looks and One because its a hell of a saving!!

The Carrera TDF 2011
Carrera Zelos
Carrera Virtuoso Ltd edition

im thinking the TDF based on my needs and the price also helps. i would need to change the pedals though as the reviews on them are awful

 

[jifdave]

I'm going to decathlon lakeside tomorrow as they often have then in store even when it says no stock.

I like it so much I've convinced my brother to get one, providing I can get it.

 

[Lp4k3]

im gutted that there isnt a store near me.... nearest one is 3 hours away!!!!

 

[vickster]

Get the train to Reading and ride home Or by online, you'll presumably have 7 days cooling off under Distance Selling Regs

 

[Lp4k3]

ive tried buying it online and its Out of Stock.. could get the train to Reading.... journey home would be a laugh.... probably wouldnt make it half way!!! hhaha