Mountain Biking - Best bike for the buck - my options

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darroj
09-23-05, 10:03 PM
Hey all,

I'm new here and I'm just getting into the mountain bike scene and these forums have been great, but I need advice from you guys, the experts. I've been to the LBS and did some looking around. In my price range, here's what they had...

Specialized Hardrock Sport - $360 - 1 year service - seemed pretty decent.
Trek 4300 - same price, same deal.

Then I also found this add locally. Now I haven't seen the bike yet, wanted to know if you thought this could be worth the investment.

The Ad:
"Cannondale F600, disk brakes, med frame, new cond, blue, cost $1000, $550"

I would probably try to haggle the price down a little (depending upon condition, prior use, etc) but would that be a decent idea?

Thanks all!

Callaway
09-23-05, 10:11 PM
What year is the bike? Any idea why the guy is selling it?

It is definitely a better bike than the other two...
darroj
09-23-05, 11:01 PM
unfortunately, I don't know the year yet... He's about 25 miles away from me... probably going to call him tomorrow. Anything special I should ask or be concerned about with a used bike?

SHB
09-24-05, 12:04 AM
The only serious concern on a used bike is the state of the frame...everything else can be replaced. therefore, assuming the frame has no cracks, dents, or signs of having been patched, the only real issue is price.
cod3man
09-24-05, 08:45 AM
Buying used is a crap shoot. Yes you could get a better fork and frame- but if it has been ridden much then replacing the drive train is cost you have to think about. Depending on wear. I change my drive train ever year- year and a half- cassette, chain, derailer pulley wheels, big rings. I might be a tad zealous with it but why ride a bike with worn parts? I have seen good used bikes before though, bring a knowledgeable friend to view it with you. Even if he knows little more than you- 4 eyes see more then 2.

If you think you would use the one year service plan- then that has some value as well.
Callaway
09-24-05, 08:54 AM
Also be sure that the guy lets you ride it around for a while before you buy it. If you go out there to test ride, don't feel like you have to buy... tough (but fair) consumers yield responsible sellers... good luck ;)