valleys07 wrote:Hi all,
After some recommendations.
I am looking at buying a road bike to build up a bit of core strength and general fitness, hopefully getting to the point where I can commute to and from work on 2 wheels instead of 4 and cut some fuel expenses.
In terms of spending, I don't want to exceed $1000, but also don't want to be riding around on a piece of junk, either.
Any advice appreciated lads
I started with an $899 Orbea flat bar - similar to this https://www.thebikelist.co.uk/orbea/carpe-h10-2013. Mine was a 2012.
The idea being, if I liked riding in and was fit enough, I'd keep going, but like you I didn't want to have to ride in on something that was going to break down every 5 minutes and then have to upgrade if I did enjoy it. Also, I wanted to 'pay it off' easily (ie, how many bus rides would it take to save the 900 bucks back?).
As it was, I really did enjoy it but it was a heap of sh1t. I upgraded (paid the difference) to a $1299 bike after about 8 -10 months. That lasted me about 28000km and well and truly paid for itself. https://www.bicyclebluebook.com/searchl ... id=3042081. Shizen colour scheme but I had little choice in the matter at the time. The thing was bullet proof!
Now I've upgraded to a Giant and have kept the second Orbea as a backup. This giant was about 1499 but again, I've paid it off already in savings made by not catching the bus. It might take longer but it's really the only time I get to do any fitness work for myself and I find when I get into work I'm more mentally stimulated. I've had to catch the bus in a few times because of other commitments and found I take a while to mentally get into work.
I'd suggest, if you are going to buy something, go for something that's better quality second hand. There are lots of good bikes out there. I don't think I'd buy new again - not that there is anything wrong with buying new, but you'll get a better frame and gearset on a 1500 second hand bike that's a year or two old than a new one for the same money.
Best of luck and enjoy!
