[trailchaser]

Hi everyone, I am a newbie here, and would like to ask for some help.
I am looking for a bike for recreational use, mainly bike path and around parks. I am 6' and 183lb.
I have checked here and there and found trek 7.2 and 7.3 FX. They cost $400-$450 new.
I don't know much about bikes, and I am curious if it's worth buying a new bike. I checked craigslist and saw a few used bikes under $200. My LBS said I will have free routine maintenance if I buy a new one from them.

Should I get a new one or get a used one and save money?

You help will be much appreciated.

Thank you,

[The BikeForums Team]

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[MichaelW]

When you get a used bike you may have to replace worn-out parts (transmission, bearings, tyres cable). This can easily add > $100. If you are a competatant mechanic, used is a good way to go. For people on very restricted incomes they dont have much of a chocie and make do with whatever thay can afford. If you can afford a $400 new bike then definately go that route. You will have a more reliable and long-lasting machine. You can use your bike for all local transport, shopping trips, commuting etc so money spent on a bike is generally money saved.

Budget for helmet, waterbottle, spare inner tube, puncture repair kit. Consider fenders, rear lugage rack and lights if you want an all-weather utility bike. If you want to haggle, ask for free accessories rather than cash off the price.

[bbattle]

I agree with Michael. Used isn't for newbies and I wouldn't buy a bike off the internet unless you know for sure it'll fit you. If the bike doesn't fit, it won't be comfortable and you won't ride it.

Getting free routine maintenance from the LBS is great; they can tell you when things are worn out and they'll show you some tricks so you can do the basic stuff yourself like adjusting brakes, shift cables, changing tires, fixing flats, etc.

[Fibber]

I would suggest that you set your sites a little lower to better fit your budget. Considering your intended use - casual riding around parks & bike paths, the Trek 7000, 7100, 7.1FX, Navigator 50 or 100 will all provide what you need, and cost in the $250 - $300 range.

[cooker]

I ride used bikes myself, and have bought a few of them for my kids, but I've always had to spend some money, and apply my rudimentary mechanical skills, to rehabilitate them. If I was starting fresh in your circumstances, I would get a new bike, and get that LBS support. If you catch the cycling bug, then when this one wears out or you want to add to your collection, you can look at getting good deals on used bikes.

[trailchaser]

Thank you for all inputs. Very helpful.

I see some of them have front suspension and some don't. It seems the suspenstion doesn't affect the price very much. For bike path riding, would it be better to have front suspension?

Thank you all.

[cooker]

In theory, suspension protects you from sharp jolts, and also protects your bike (especially the wheel rims) from damage due to jarring impact. It also helps maintain traction and control on rough surfaces by keeping the wheels on the ground. Howver, you don't really need suspension for smoother trails and it adds a little extra weight and inefficiency, and one more component that might fail, so I would say stick to a rigid bike. You can also get a suspension seat post, but I found it just made me bounce unnecessarily and feel less secure on the bike.

[Fibber]

I also think your physical condition plays into whether or not you need some sort of suspension. I readily accept that it adds weight and complexity, but found that I probably would not enjoy biking without it.

I live in a rural area. The road around me are in fair shape, but we also go light offroading - dirt roads, fire trails, the lower paths of a mountain biking park. I have a 4 year old Trek Navigator 200, with the front fork and seat post suspension. The few times I tried riding before I bought this bike, I always felt 'beaten up' - too much back and joint pain. This bike made it enjoyable. I used to enjoy driving sports cars too, but after some time in a Subaru WRX, I opted for the more comfy Outback. You have to know your own body and do what is right for you.

[legot73]

Another plus with a new bike, besides the maint, is that an LBS will typically discount accessories you get with the bike (helmet, bottle & cage, rack, etc.). Ask.

[alanbikehouston]

Unless you are a skilled bike tech, buying a used bike can be tricky. I'd be happy to buy a used bike from a bike store that provides a warranty with the bike. If buying a used bike from an individual, have them bring the bike to a bike shop for a check-up. Have the shop give you a written estimate of the cost of having the bike put into good, safe riding condition. Deduct the cost of that work from the price.

I see 1985ish to 1990ish used bikes at shops in Houston for $200 to $300 that are comparable in quality to new bikes that sell for $600 to $1,500. So, a used bike can be a good value, if you are careful.

[jimmuter]

Your bike shop should let you test ride some bikes. Try some with and some without front suspension. I did that and decided I liked without a lot more.