I'm riding in the RideLondon100 for Charity this summer and I need to buy a bike. I don't do much cycling so I don't want to break the bank when I do, but I want to make sure it is fit for purpose.
There seems to be a massive variance in the price of bikes, what are the key elements I need to consider when comparing those at the lower end of the market? are there specific "must haves" that I should consider?
As an alternative option I was thinking of trying to find a second hand bike, but with a higher spec than buying new, although with the exception of Ebay I've not really found many other sites or local shops ( I live in London) that sell good spec second hand bikes
Any thoughts/ suggestions would be much appreciated
The best you can get for your money. An aluminium frame is good enough with a carbon fork. For meal the ideal gears would be shimano 105 or similar. The right size is also paramount. But do not forget that you need a good pair of cycling shorts and probably clip in pedals and shoes. 100 mile is a long way and you will need to put in some decent mileage before it.
hi i would say that you need to determine how much use you are going to get out of the bike and on what terrain- -also the correct size is critical i would suggest trying to borrow a bike so you can get some practise in first also clothing is very important and can be expensive if only used occasionaly- you can then try getting food and drink on board etc. there are a lot of good second hand bikes about - i recently saw a really good road bike for £320 s/h - i prefer to use a local shop rather than some of the big nationals - you tend to get a better service - you could join a cycling club and get lots of advice - go for a club that caters for new riders otherwise you will be left way behind -youll probably get hooked on cycling and you can then buy a bike that suits enjoy cycling and stay safe (where in london are you based?
magpie667
28 Mar 05:34
Joined: 27 Mar 2013
Posts: 4
Bike:
The most important factor to me is how wealthy are you,Ive seen loads of overweight guys on £3000 bikes and lean athletes on gear thats just missing a basket on the front.
Go to your local bike shop tell them your budget and what you are training for then ask if there are any promotional extras eg £100 free components cos you must have a helmet to compete usually.
A good basic road bike alumiminium frame helmet and shorts should come to no more than £600 do not skimp on the helmet and shorts one can save your life the other well lol
Buying a new road bike is a very exciting experience no matter what level of rider you are. However simple the process sounds, there are actually numerous things to consider when buying a new bike - in this instance, a carbon road bike. You should check:
1. FRAME MATERIAL
2. INTENDED USE
3. FRAME DESIGN
4. GROUPSET
5. WHEELSET
6. COMPONENTS
7. BIKE FITTING
Find the latest cycle gear and who sells them within the UK. Share the experience you have with a product with others to help them make an informed choice.
