First Tri in June...looking for a road bike

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2008-04-14 1:20 PM

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Subject: First Tri in June...looking for a road bike
I've been following the Javelin thread and am very tempted to buy the Parma (if they still have them).

But if I can find a super steal on an old road bike that'll get me through my first summer, I almost rather do that. I don't have much to spend at this time and would like to keep my costs to a bare minimum.

I found this bike on my local craigslist. In your opinion...how much work and/or money will I need to put in this to make it race-ready? Tires are apparently good. The bike comes with your basic flat pedals.

Thanks for your help!

http://detroit.craigslist.org/bik/637492536.html




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2008-04-14 2:39 PM
in reply to: #1336778

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Subject: RE: First Tri in June...looking for a road bike

Lots of work.  Just seeing the peeling paint and rust around the stem, I'm assuming the other parts were kept in just as good shape.  I don't think it'd be worth the expense to 'build-up' that bike if you want to race it.  The expense of a deal on a new bike or recently used bike would probably be less than fixing that one up.  Plus, the frame will be much better.  Can't really tell, but it looks like it needs new wheels... $$$$  New brakes and shifters... $$$$ Probably new cranks and derailleurs... $$$$.  And so on...$$$

Now... for $65 I would buy that thing, strip it down and see what I could do with it on the cheap.  Looks like after a paint job it could make a sweet fixie or a commuter.

2008-04-14 2:48 PM
in reply to: #1336778

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Subject: RE: First Tri in June...looking for a road bike
Looks like a fun bar ride bike, but I'd want something newer to train and race on.

How tall are you and what it your budget?

Everyone here is going to say fit is the most important thing, and I tend to agree, but after you are committed to the sport. If you are just looking to get started for minimal investment, then really close is good enough. Places that offer a great will have you walking out the door for $1,200+ on a bike.


Edited by Nelg 2008-04-14 2:52 PM
2008-04-14 3:02 PM
in reply to: #1336778

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Subject: RE: First Tri in June...looking for a road bike
I'm 5'9. I probably wouldn't want to spend more than $300 for a bike this year...and at that it's going to take another month before I'm ready to make the investment (aka...have the money). At that time...I'll be really lucky if the Javelin bikes are still available.

2008-04-14 3:07 PM
in reply to: #1336778

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Subject: RE: First Tri in June...looking for a road bike
...then again, I should be getting my "stimulus" refund check from the government anytime now.
2008-04-14 3:08 PM
in reply to: #1336778

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Subject: RE: First Tri in June...looking for a road bike
I don't know, if you have the budget for the Javelin's I would get one over the craigslist bike it will take alot of work.  Worst case check out bikesdirect.com if Javelin runs out, they usually have bikes for decent price.

2008-04-14 3:14 PM
in reply to: #1336778

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Subject: RE: First Tri in June...looking for a road bike
You make a good point. I guess I just want to get a bike sooner than later so I can begin riding outside and so I can get comfortable riding a road bike. I'm having a hard time being patient.

2008-04-14 3:16 PM
in reply to: #1337255

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Subject: RE: First Tri in June...looking for a road bike
hamiltks10 - 2008-04-14 3:14 PM You make a good point. I guess I just want to get a bike sooner than later so I can begin riding outside and so I can get comfortable riding a road bike. I'm having a hard time being patient.
Yeah, but get something that is not in good condition and rides like crap could discourage more than not riding at all.
2008-04-14 3:33 PM
in reply to: #1337255

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Subject: RE: First Tri in June...looking for a road bike

hamiltks10 - 2008-04-14 3:14 PM You make a good point. I guess I just want to get a bike sooner than later so I can begin riding outside and so I can get comfortable riding a road bike. I'm having a hard time being patient.

Be patient enough to not buy that bike you found on craigslist unless you have the extra money laying around to hack it up and do something fun with it.  I don't see it being race worthy without a great deal of work, which equals a good bit of money.  I mean, you could search all around for great deals on parts and assemble them bit by bit, but then that also defeats the purpose of getting you on a bike quickly.



Edited by sesh 2008-04-14 3:36 PM
2008-04-14 3:52 PM
in reply to: #1337255

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Subject: RE: First Tri in June...looking for a road bike
Maybe try a used bike store around the U of M campus, they probably have some decent bikes that students got rid of after they graduated.  And they will have them running like new.
2008-04-14 4:05 PM
in reply to: #1336778

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Subject: RE: First Tri in June...looking for a road bike
Thanks for the advice everyone. I will hold off until I can buy a decent bike. I apprecaite your feedback!

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