Bike purchase advice please

[mzungo]

Hi all

I am looking to buy my girlfriend a bike for her birthday and wanted some advice please. She is doing the London to Brighton ride so use wise I guess it'll be that, a few training cycles for it and a few days out in the countryside rather than any regular use.

Given she won't use it all that often I don't see much point paying over the odds so would think of a budget in the £200-250 range unless there is a good reason that I should pay more (knowing that generally you get what you pay for).

Any thoughts?

Many Thanks

 

[smokeysmoo]

Buy used, that way you'll get the most bike for your money. Plus, as it's already depreciated if you come to sell it you shouldn't get a shock

 

[mzungo]

Thanks. Totally agree with your advice. Unfortunately, as its a birthday present she would kick my @rse if it wasn't shiny and new!!!

 

[the snail]

Something like this?
http://www.decathlon.co.uk/btwin-fitness-3-id_8188895.html
The decathlon bikes seem to be well regarded on here, and that bike is fairly light with low gears to get up the hills.