Ebay bike buying - Advice needed

Kate_Guyana

Hi there.

I am looking to get into MTBing, but don't want to fork out lots of money on a decent bike yet. I think I'll probably end up spending quite a bit if I keep hiring, so it may be worth buying a cheapish second-hand bike for this summer to see if I get into it.

Just wondering if anyone has any advice on how much I should be looking to spend on a second-hand entry level bike. i was viewing this bike, and I think I would be looking for somethiclue! Any thoughts?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Corratec-Hardtail-mountain-bike-not-specialised-giant-orange-/190819676214?_trksid=p2047675.l2557&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEWAX%3AIT&nma=true&si=NFWdy2BYNS27n9muruNzlBfEwHY%253D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc

supersonic

What is your maximum budget, and what type of terrain do you plan to tackle?

The Rookie

Looks like it's sold.....

Poor quality listing, many errors, at the right price it would be an OK starting bike, but it's set up pretty 'heavy duty' so would depend on your planned usage.

Kate_Guyana

Thanks very much for your input.

My budget is around £250. I know it's not a lot, but it's really just to get started. I have just been doing XC on blues and a few reds. I would be looking to spend around £600/700 if I decided I actually really liked it and wanted to continue. It's really just to save money on hiring at the moment, so something comparable to a hire bike would be great. And something I could resell a few months down the line.

Any advice on what I should be looking to pay, what to look out for in listings etc would be great.

thanks

supersonic

The bike you list is pretty much unsuitable, as is heavy, old and designed more for jumping than anything.

2nd hand has its pitfalls - no warranty, often can't try it, may need work done - but if you find a good one, then you can get a significant saving.

I'd look for 2nd hand Boardman bikes, are often cheap on ebay and might sneak in at your budget. Or older Specialized Rockhoppers.

Kate_Guyana

Thank you for your advice.

Very useful and I shall keep an eye out for those bikes you mentioned (and consult you pros before bidding on anything!)

supersonic

Don't know about pro lol, but I do specialise in entry level bikes!

If you can up to £300 or so, a whole new world is opened up with some good quality new bikes.

Kate_Guyana

Ah I may have found the perfect person to consult on any potential buys then!

thank you!

Don't worry, I promise I won't badger you too much!

97th choice

He loves it actually!

Gumtree is a good source of second hand bikes as many on ebay are collection only. Also, have you checked if your place of work does a cycle scheme?

Kate_Guyana

Well I start a job as a teacher in September and they offer it, so my plan is to buy something cheap until then and then upgrade in September on the cycle2work scheme!

My current job has it to, but I've already got a road bike through that.

Thanks for letting me know about supersonic! I shall be bombarding him with gumtree and ebay links!

kevinharley

You WILL like it ... if you've tackled a few red / blue routes so far without being put off, and are still planning to do some more, the chances are you'll stay 'into' it. Even if you don't get away to trail centres, there will be local woods, trails, parks etc for you to ride regularly (depending on where you live) ... or even just mooching down to the shops, commuting etc!

I can see why you wouldn't want to splash out if you're not sure, and can see the logic that if you get a second hand bike, you can run it for a bit and sell it on at the end, and keep most of your money. That said, you could end up with a dog of a bike, and unless you have some bike maintenance skills (or are also planning to learn soon), it could be a lot of trouble and / or a lot of expense. A second hand bike might need a new drivetrain, brake pads, service etc, and you could end up spending a further £50-£150 easily on a LBS service straight after buying the bike.

I guess my advice is, if you like it already, chances are you'll stay liking it, and you may as well splash out £600-£700 on a bike now ; this will get you a decent starter hardtail (something like the Boardman Comp from Halfords, or equivalent priced Rockriders from Decathlon) that will be fun to ride for a good few years to come.

Kate_Guyana

Any thoughts on this:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/carrera-vulcan-womens-mountain-bike-/221211656256?pt=UK_Bikes_GL&hash=item33813e0040

Kate_Guyana

Also, thanks for your reply Kevin.

I want to wait until September before I splash out, so I can get it with the cycle2work scheme at my new job. Your advice has made me think that maybe I should stick to hire bikes for the time being to avoid hassle/expense with servicing etc.

supersonic

It's pretty good actually - a little over priced though, is an older model Vulcan. But has some good parts on it and quality frame. I wouldn't pay more than £180 for it. Collection only too.

MTB13

Obviously just be careful on places like EBay. Ask about the history of the bike, maybe even serial numbers. If they back off or don't have the answers, walk away.

Kate_Guyana

Ah yes. Hadn't thought of asking for the serial number. Good advice. thanks!

I've realised I'm looking at all these bikes and have no intention buying until I've been biking again this weekend. I'll probably start my hunt again next week.

thank for everyone's help. you will hear from me soon no doubt!