Hi all from plymouth and could I get some advice

[hairykopite]

Hi all my name is Paul i live down in plymouth and have joined the forum as i would love some advice. I currently work to and fro work and would like to get a cheap bike to ride instead its all on the road/cycle paths some up hill. I have seen a trek 7200 fk second hand for £80 it looks in decent condition just didnt know if this was a good price or if anyone had other suggestions.

Thank you in advance

 

[Canrider]

Hi hairykopite, welcome.

I suppose the easy first question is 'what's your budget?'. If it's £80, maybe that Trek is for you..depending of course on what kind of condition it's in. Do you feel confident in checking its condition, or is there someone that you could bring along to check it for you?

 

[hairykopite]

around £100 really just didnt know is £80 was reasonable for that bike as i guess its old here is the link http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/TREK-7200...1181364692?pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item3f23ab3dd4

 

[Canrider]

Okay, maybe look at it this way: That bike is old, but new it probably cost about, what, £400 to buy?
So the question becomes is it better to spend £80 on a used bike that was £400 new, or spend £80 on a new bike that costs £80?
IF it's in good running order and nothing is broken and the frame's not been crashed or bent and the parts all work and the tyres are in good condition and all that other stuff, then £80 is probably a fair-to-good deal. Much better than an £80 new bike, which will be heavier and fall apart quickly and have cheaper parts on it.
BUT if you buy this one for £80 and it takes, what, £100? £200? in repairs to get it useable, then the deal's maybe not so good and spending a few more weeks on eBay might net you a better option for your needs (not sure how long you've been looking).

(If you see what I mean)

 

[hairykopite]

cool thank you he has offered for me to test it out on monday so will see after that. its been a while since i road a bike so i shall be posting about helmet advice in a mo there is so much choice

 

[Canrider]

cool thank you he has offered for me to test it out on monday so will see after that. its been a while since i road a bike so i shall be posting about helmet advice in a mo there is so much choice

It's very good news that he's willing to let you test ride it. Don't be afraid to walk away if it's 'not right' in any way whatsoever.

I'd advise against asking about helmets...some people have strong opinions as to their usefulness (myself included), and some express them...forcefully. If you *are* shopping for a helmet, go into one or more local shops and ask their advice, and try a few on for fit.

 

[hairykopite]

Thank You for your help

 

[Peteaud]

I have 2 trek bikes and the wife has 1 and all have been fantastic.

For £80 i think that its good value providing it all rides and feels ok.

 

[hairykopite]

looks like he has sold it to someone else so the search continues

 

[Rickshaw Phil]

Hi Paul and .

Keep searching, there are plenty more bikes out there.

Do any of your local bike shops sell second hand bikes? My sister recently picked up an old Dawes Mojave from a LBS for £100. Cosmetically it's a bit scruffy but it's been serviced, had some new parts and everything works properly so pretty reasonable I thought.

As far as helmets go I'd advise trying them on. Each manufacturer has their own idea about head shape so find the one that is a comfortable, snug fit. The more expensive ones tend to be lighter and have better ventilation rather than offering better protection so you needn't spend a fortune.

 

[hairykopite]

No second hand bike shops that I know of I have my eyes on a Claude Butler San Remo on eBay it's the 2011 model in good condition he wants £190 I wanna try and knock him down though but don't think he will.
Also looked on the selling site here

 

[biggs682]

No second hand bike shops that I know of I have my eyes on a Claude Butler San Remo on eBay it's the 2011 model in good condition he wants £190 I wanna try and knock him down though but don't think he will.
Also looked on the selling site here

try local gumtree