FLCC> A beginner's questions: Non racer perspective

[Mark Sandler]

I promise I am not going to post anymore... :)

The only part of this I agree that used bikes are harder to find than new
ones, and it is a good idea to have someone to check it/have it riden...

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> Yes, a commuter bike can be bought cheaplyYou can even buy a new bike at
Dicks, or
 > Evilmart for about $100-150.  But you will get what> you pay for.

Are you kidding me? Have you ever tried one?   Those should be prohibited
for creating
image for bicycle as unreliable toy "only good for occasional stroll in the
park, within walking
distance from your car".


 more than you initially bargained for, trying to make it into something it
> isn't.  You spent $300 for your bike.  For another $150, you could have had
> something new, properly assembled, with a warranty, service contract, and
> properly fitted.  And likely lighter than what you're riding.
>

Unlikely. My estimate for comparable new road bike (weight/frame wise) would
be $900.
Component wise -- sure, newer ones are really cool, but the question how
much do you care for 7 vs 9 gears on the back, and for shifters combined
with brake levers, if you don't race...  :-)

Where exactly you could get a new road bike for $450?  Besides on $450 bike
(whatever it is) over three years, I would spend another $300 on
maintenance. It is not that those somehow come with everlasting
components...:)



For $100, you're unlikely to find a *quality *used bike.  There is a
> misconception that used
>

I agree, I was lucky. But $300 sounds like a reasonable price :)


the bike you bought needs a new stem, that your crank length is all wrong,
> that you have a worn chain, worn cassette and a 7-speed derailleur (for
> which the shop doesn't have
>

In the worst case scenario.



And you can definitely do a Tuesday night race, or a Citizen's race on a
> $500 bike (low-end).
>

as well as on $300 (decent used road bike), and even, perhaps on a mountain
bike, if you are fit. :)




mark
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