Newbie here , just looking for some advice please...confused

m3dyn

Hi there,I am looking at buying a used road bike, I have a budget of around £350 which I know is not a lot ,but it is a starter bike for now
I am about 5ft 8 and am looking at 54-55 frames.....I was wondering what size you are and what frames you are riding to try and get a rough gauge, and I also appreciate that it depends on the individual bike and the feel to a certain extent, but then again cant a bike be tailored within reason ?
I have been looking at used : Gary Fisher AR Super 55 ,and a MarinVenezia.54..any input greatly received.
I am hoping to complete the London to Southend ride this year.
Dan

markos1963

At your price point I would say you're a prime candidate for a 2nd hand bike. You'll get a much better bike for your money and as long as you are ok with sizing you shouldn't go far wrong. I reckon something like a 2yo Spech Allez should be ok.

topdude

Medium / 54 ( or maybe 52 ) sounds about right for you
Look out for a second hand bike like these:
Giant OCR / SCR
Specialized Allez
Trek
They are all good makes with good frames so if the components are a bit worn it is worth upgrading as and when possible

Look around your local bike shops for used bikes that have been traded in.

nicensleazy

Ebay would be your best bet!

shed-dweller

My first road bike was a Dawes Giro 300, which I always found to be strong and reliable, that cost me £300. Remember it's the legs that count more than the bike :P
I suppose the guys above are right that if you could find a second hand bike you might get more for your money, buy also you could be looking for months and end up settling for something that isn't quite right.
I might say that for your first bike it would be better to find something in a shop, then you can speak to some honest people who know their stuff, instead of some randomer off ebay just trying to get rid of his old banger!

Mark1962a

For used I would agree above and look at Trek, Giant OCR or SCR or Specialized Allez as they are popular bikes in abundance and usually quite a few come up on e bay etc. often they are upgraded as well in your budget. just watch for overused components and bent frames etc - stick to models from recent years.

My son is nearly your height and has a 54 cm frame, he started with a Giant SCR3 which is a great starter bike.

The Halfords Carrera bikes got a good review in Cycling Plus and have good frames - they are offering Carrera Virtuosos for just £330 at the moment - Compact Shimano Groupset and easily upgradeable - Bike snobs may look down but i think they are great looking bikes at bargain prices - http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stor ... 65710#dtab

As someone said its your legs that count, Good luck

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