General Cycling Discussion - Close to buying a Cannondale Synapse Carbon

Hello Folks, my second post in this wonderful forum. It's truly exciting to be here!

a brief background, im 33 year old, 5 ft. 10".. on a shoe string budget and the advise of bike shop owner, i went for a Trek Marlin, from their gary fisher series. especially coz the roads here arent as good as the ones you are blessed with in US or Europe.. however, my first love is a road bike, purely from the speed perspective.

recently came across a sale where the seller (in india) is looking to sell his Cannondale Synapse Carbon 6 (pic of actual product - http://postimage.org/image/2phxo41fo/ )

the seller is riding a 2011 Cannondale CAAD 10-3 Black and looking to upgrade to a all ultegra component bike.

he is selling the carbon 6 for roughly $860, shipping included.. he has rode the bike for almost 400 miles. date of purchase - 8th June 2010. he has it insured till end of may..

Now, my query has multiple dimensions..

1. i'm not a pro by any standard. i'm already enjoying the little bits that Trek Marlin is offering already. i'm looking for a bike which is exciting to ride.
2. Does the pic give away any specific detail of the bike which anyone here would like to share.
3. does the price sound justified..the user claims to have paid close to $1700 (importing bikes to India is expensive affair)
4. how is this bike for rough handling. any downsides to owning a full carbon body...?

I truly appreciate everyone's time!! Thanks for looking..and if you are posting, Thanks for sparing your valuable time!

Buying a used carbon fiber bicycle is generally not recommended, sir.

Regardless as to what the original owner paid for the bike, it could have been previously damaged. Maybe he's trying to recoup his losses. Perhaps, it was involved in a high impact collision and the integrity of the carbon fiber is now suspect. Perhaps he's lost confidence in the bike due to some previous collision or physical mishap.

OTOH, perhaps it's a once in a lifetime phenomenal deal of the century. At any rate, you would be gambling...

Good Luck! :thumb:

- Slim :)

PS.

In order to confirm actual carbon fiber frame damage, you need state-of-the-art scientific equipment to be used by an expert....

* Always buy carbon fiber bicycles when they're new!

Awesome looking bike...I see why you would want it.

Nice looking bike.

A word of warning: don't leave a full carbon bike out in direct sunlight for too long. They may catch fire if you do that.








j/k

Buying a used carbon fiber bicycle is generally not recommended, sir.

Regardless as to what the original owner paid for the bike, it could have been previously damaged. Maybe he's trying to recoup his losses. Perhaps, it was involved in a high impact collision and the integrity of the carbon fiber is now suspect. Perhaps he's lost confidence in the bike due to some previous collision or physical mishap.

OTOH, perhaps it's a once in a lifetime phenomenal deal of the century. At any rate, you would be gambling...

Good Luck! :thumb:

- Slim :)

PS.

In order to confirm actual carbon fiber frame damage, you need state-of-the-art scientific equipment to be used by an expert....

* Always buy carbon fiber bicycles when they're new!


thank you very much for the insight, makes sense! ill use ur line of thought in future discussion and see how the gentleman reacts.


Awesome looking bike...I see why you would want it.

u cud say that again.. :(


Nice looking bike.

A word of warning: don't leave a full carbon bike out in direct sunlight for too long. They may catch fire if you do that.


j/k

:) ghostrider with carbon 6 ?

Jensonj says:

[/QUOTE**thank you very much for the insight, makes sense! ill use ur line of thought in future discussion and see how the gentleman reacts. [/QUOTE]

That line of reasoning would be better kept close to the vest. Perhaps it would be wiser, not to entertain your unsuspecting mind with such statistical probabilities. It may not be prepared for the genuine world of stark reality.

This gentleman should only be spoken to, in passing. No mention of interest in any bicycle should be a topic of discussion.

- Slim :)

Jensonj says:

[/QUOTE**thank you very much for the insight, makes sense! ill use ur line of thought in future discussion and see how the gentleman reacts.

That line of reasoning would be better kept close to the vest. Perhaps it would be wiser, not to entertain your unsuspecting mind with such statistical probabilities. It may not be prepared for the genuine world of stark reality.

This gentleman should only be spoken to, in passing. No mention of interest in any bicycle should be a topic of discussion.

- Slim :)[/QUOTE]


Thanks a lot of slowing me down on this one! ill do the needful.. appreciate your thoughts!

thank you very much for the insight, makes sense! ill use ur line of thought in future discussion and see how the gentleman reacts.
SlimRider's opinions are somewhat unusual and not necessarily well-informed.

That doesn't mean you shouldn't be cautious but that caution should be applied regardless of the material the bike is made from.

As with any bicycle, one should not trust the advice you are being given without assessing the quality of the source of that advice.

SlimRider's opinions are somewhat unusual and not necessarily well-informed.

That doesn't mean you shouldn't be cautious but that caution should be applied regardless of the material the bike is made from.

As with any bicycle, one should not trust the advice you are being given without assessing the quality of the source of that advice.


sure, i intend to bring it up in my discussion with him. hoping for the best. thanks very much for sharing your thoughts! this really help me asking all the right questions to the seller..

sure, i intend to bring it up in my discussion with him. hoping for the best. thanks very much for sharing your thoughts! this really help me asking all the right questions to the seller..

No, I'm talking about the advice you are getting from SlimRider (or anybody else here).

That is, don't assume that what people here (on this forum) make any sense. You have to hang around for a while to get a sense of who gives reliable/useful/sensible advice and who does not.

Feel free to look at this thread (for example) to get some idea of the quality of comments.

http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php/792061-Bought-a-new-Giant-carbon-bike-do-I-need-to-baby-this-frame

===============

The Cannondale Synapse you are looking at is certainly a nice bike (it's well regarded).

Note that, whatever road bike you end up getting, you might want to put wider tires on it. Wider tires let you use lower pressure for the same load (the total weight of the bike and rider and any thing else being carried). Lower pressure tends to be more comfortable on rougher roads.

In the US, 23 mm tires are typical but many people would be better served by using 25 mm or 28 mm (if the frame can take them) especially for crappy roads.

This is the US specs for the 2012 bike. I have no idea what is on the 2010 bike and whether the version in India would be the same as the one in the US.


http://www.cannondale.com/2012-synapse-carbon-6-apex-20262

Caad 10 4 Rival I think would serve you much better

Caad 10 4 Rival I think would serve you much better
Useless advice. You really need to indicate why. And he's looking at a used 2010 bike in India.

While that's a nice bike too, you'd have to indicate why it would be worth spending 2 times as much.

http://www.cannondale.com/2012-caad10-4-rival-20059

1. People like the Synapse, and I probably would still be riding one if I had gotten a Synapse instead of a one-size-off CAAD8.
2. No, can't tell much from the pic. It looks store-spec, all-original including the front & rear reflectors. It's got 9-speed Tiagra, which comes on carbon bikes from shops in the US still twice the price (US$) that the seller is asking. So,...
3. Yeah, that price sounds pretty good to me. I sold my CAAD8 with the same wheels and 105 for $700, I think, and that's half the price that it was new, too.
4. If you're going to lock it up with a chain to a fence, you might get it nicked up pretty bad. The same could happen with thin-walled aluminum, though, but carbon can be repaired, too, if necessary.

There's been an older OCLV carbon Trek that looks like a commuter bike regularly chained to a rack on the street near my workplace. I figure it's fine.

PS - pay no mind to SlimRider. We appreciate his enthusiasm, but not the misinformation.

njkayaker;13728457]
No, I'm talking about the advice you are getting fromSlimRider (or anybody else
here).

So you're now in a position to judge me!...How ridiculous!




That is, don't assume that what people here (on this forum) make any
sense.You have to hang around for a while to get a sense of who gives
reliable/useful/sensible advice and who does not.


Well let's just see what sense you make Mr. Perfection...


Feel free to look at this thread (for example) to get some idea of the
quality of comments.http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php/792061-Bought-a-new-Giant-carbon-bike-do-I-need-to-baby-this-frame


Yes! Within this thread, I mention the imperfections of carbon fiber. Everything that I mentioned is well-documented. It is true that carbon fiber has an impact-resistance problem. It is also true that carbon fiber frames as susceptible to structural damage after being scratched. That why we are warned about parking them close to other bikes and up against buildings, etc. I also, mentioned the fact that carbon fiber bicycles are sensitive to UV radiation and their polyurethane clearcoat coverings need multiple applications, as they are only effective within specific time periods, depending upon degree of UV radiation exposure. These facts are all well documented. So what's your highly esteemed advice there! Did I say something in error? ...Would you even know for certain, if I were in error? ...Well, I know for certain,that I am NOT in error and I left links to corrobrate my claims.

===============



The Cannondale Synapse you are looking at is certainly a nice bike (it's well
regarded).Note that, whatever road bike you end up getting, you might
want to put wider tires on it. Wider tires let you use lower pressure for the
same load (the total weight of the bike and rider and any thing else being
carried). Lower pressure tends to be more comfortable on rougher roads.

Agreed.



In the US, 23 mm tires are typical but many people would be better
by using 25 mm or 28 mm (if the frame can take them) especially
for crappy roads.




This is the US specs for the 2012 bike. I have no
idea what is on the 2010 bike and whether the version in India would be
the same

as the one in the US.

http://www.cannondale.com/2012-synapse-carbon-6-apex-20262


So you're advising this guy to place 25 or 28mm tires on his bike to traverse "crappy" roads. This is not good advice. Also, 23mm tires are NOT typical for "crappy roads"! In general, one should always use the widest tire they can possibly mount on their bike for exclusively, "crappy" roads.

- Slim

]SlimRider's opinions are somewhat unusual and not necessarily
well-informed.

So, on one hand, you're telling this guy that my advice is "unusual and not necessarily well-informed", then suddenly you flip and tell him to be cautious.


That doesn't mean you shouldn't be cautious but that caution should be applied
regardless of the material the bike is made from.


You're just repeating what I've already stated. The only difference is that I gave him reasons to be cautious and you just gave him a general warning. I'd say, a warning with reason trumps a mere warning without good reasoning.


As with any bicycle, one should not trust the advice you are being given without
assessing the quality of the source of that advice.



People buy used steel and aluminum framed bikes, everyday. At least they can inspect the welds and render decent judgement as to whether the bike is worth the risk of purchase or not. You simply can't do that with carbon fiber bikes. It is a well-known fact that carbon fiber damage is quite allusive and insidious. In order to properly assess CF damage, you need state-of-the-art equipment, to be used by an expert, to determine possible damage. In some cases, that's still not enough! Again, this info is all well documented as most people within this forum can readily attest.

- Slim

Who do you think you are attempting to give the final word about others opinions?

You seriously need to back off! You have no right to render someone's opinion as useless. Suppose someone said that your opinion is useless! Suppose someone called you an A$$HAT, because of it!

I don't think you'd like that very much, would you?...So lighten up and respect other people's opinions, whether you like them or not!


- Slim :)

First: there are "opinions", and then there is "wrong".

People can debate opinions all they want, but it's pointless, really. And, people can't debate facts, because, well, facts are facts. If you're wrong, then you're wrong, simple as that.

Secondly: You really need to either think before you post or stop using edits to mask the insults you've already hurled. Other BF members have been banned already for such behavior, and I don't know if you want to be the next one.

Here's your original post, as it appeared in my email inbox:



---Quote (Originally by njkayaker)---
Useless advice. You really need to indicate why. And he's looking at a used 2010 bike in India.

While that's a nice bike too, you'd have to indicate why it would be worth spending 2 times as much.

http://www.cannondale.com/2012-caad10-4-rival-20059
---End Quote---

Who do you think you are attempting to give the final word about others opinions?

You seriously need to back off! You have no right to render someone's opinion as useless. Your opinion is useless! A$$HAT!

- Slim :)

Who do you think you are attempting to give the final word about others opinions?

You seriously need to back off! You have no right to render someone's opinion as useless. Suppose someone said that your opinion is useless! Suppose someone called you an A$$HAT, because of it!

I don't think you'd like that very much, would you?...So lighten up and respect other people's opinions, whether you like them or not!


- Slim :)
The truth hurts.

First: there are "opinions", and then there is "wrong".

People can debate opinions all they want, but it's pointless, really. And, people can't debate facts, because, well, facts are facts. If you're wrong, then you're wrong, simple as that.

Secondly: You really need to either think before you post or stop using edits to mask the insults you've already hurled. Other BF members have been banned already for such behavior, and I don't know if you want to be the next one.

Here's your original post, as it appeared in my email inbox:

I guess you're right..He just pissed me off!

1. People like the Synapse, and I probably would still be riding one if I had gotten a Synapse instead of a one-size-off CAAD8.
2. No, can't tell much from the pic. It looks store-spec, all-original including the front & rear reflectors. It's got 9-speed Tiagra, which comes on carbon bikes from shops in the US still twice the price (US$) that the seller is asking. So,...
3. Yeah, that price sounds pretty good to me. I sold my CAAD8 with the same wheels and 105 for $700, I think, and that's half the price that it was new, too.
4. If you're going to lock it up with a chain to a fence, you might get it nicked up pretty bad. The same could happen with thin-walled aluminum, though, but carbon can be repaired, too, if necessary.

There's been an older OCLV carbon Trek that looks like a commuter bike regularly chained to a rack on the street near my workplace. I figure it's fine.

[QUOTE]PS - pay no mind to SlimRider. We appreciate his enthusiasm, but not the misinformation.


......What misinformation?

I hope nobody is suggesting that the OP purchase a used CF bicycle. That's just so wrong on so many levels...Unless he's familiar with the seller!

OP..Pay no mind to anybody vaguely suggesting that you invest a used carbon fiber bicycle. That would be such an ill-advised investment.

I guess you're right..He just pissed me off!

njkayaker was right, though. The OP is asking specific questions about a specific bike. It's not just another, "Which bike should I buy?" thread. Recommending a different model of bike that the bike's seller doesn't own and would cost twice as much anyway is, indeed, useless advice.

It's like someone asking in a car forum, "I've found a 2006 Honda for $5000 -- is there something I should look out for with this model?" and getting told, "You should buy a 2012 Passat."

The truth hurts.

At least you're using more words now!

That means that we're improving...

- Slim :)

......What misinformation?

That CF will explode if you look at it wrong, that bike manufacturers blithely ignore common steps to protect it against UV, that any metal material is magically stronger in every way, that it's impossible to examine CF for cracks or delamination...

I read through the thread that njkayaker linked to, and my goodness -- if it weren't for people quoting your posts before they were deleted, I wouldn't have known how misinformed you were. Carbon fiber has been around for quite a while now, and I've begun wondering how recently you discovered that it's being used for bicycles.

njkayaker was right, though. The OP is asking specific questions about a specific bike. It's not just another, "Which bike should I buy?" thread. Recommending a different model of bike that the bike's seller doesn't own and would cost twice as much anyway is, indeed, useless advice.

It's like someone asking in a car forum, "I've found a 2006 Honda for $5000 -- is there something I should look out for with this model?" and getting told, "You should buy a 2012 Passat."

Well, if you consider the fact that the entire idea about purchasing a used CF bike, is a bad idea, then suggesting another bike for consideration, may not be entirely useless. I mean, if the OP omits the original idea about considering the purchase of a used CF bike, then the arena is open for other suggestions. It's simply a judgement call, that is entirely up to the discretion of the OP as whether he wants to consider it or not. He should be the only one to determine its value.

If the OP says, " Well, I'm still considering buying the used Synapse", then yes, the suggestion of another bike becomes useless, for the moment. Of course, he can still bank that suggested bike as a quality bike and use that data at a later time. In that sense, it's still not totally useless.

OTOH, if the OP completely rejects the idea about purchasing a CF bike, then the new suggestion might prove to be a good one and thus, quite useful. So therefore, it all depends upon the OP's opinion, entirely.

- Slim :)

Well, if you consider the fact that the entire idea about purchasing a used CF bike, is a bad idea, ...

... which it isn't.

"fRames: (frame, fork structure, swing arm): Cannondale
frames (except frames for Freeride, and Dirt Jumping bikes,
see below) are warranted by Cycling Sports Group, Inc., 16
Trowbridge Drive, Bethel, CT 06801 against manufacturing
defects in materials and/or workmanship for the lifetime of
the original owner. "

You will be taking your chances on the frame.

[QUOTE]That CF will explode if you look at it wrong, that bike manufacturers blithely ignore common steps to protect it against UV, that any metal material is magically stronger in every way, that it's impossible to examine CF for cracks or delamination...


First of all, I've never stated that carbon fiber will explode. That's just a false staement altogether. Carbon fiber bicycle manufacturers do use polyurethane clearcoat applications in order to counter UV radiation effects. However, my only contention is that it has to be applied a number of times, in order to remain effective. The industry acknowledges this fact. I submitted links that state as much. So what's the problem there?

Also, I stated within that very thread that there's no perfect material. I highlighted the fact that steel has the problem with oxidation and that aluminum has the fatigue problem. Of course, I also mentioned the frailties of carbon fiber, as well. There are only three; impact-reistance, surface scratching, and UV radiation sensitivity.


I read through the thread that njkayaker linked to, and my goodness -- if it weren't for people quoting your posts before they were deleted, I wouldn't have known how misinformed you were. Carbon fiber has been around for quite a while now, and I've begun wondering how recently you discovered that it's being used for bicycles.

So you see, I'm not so misinformed. I can provide you links to experts who have previously stated that which I'm stating today. That's something that I always try to do, is to stay current with frame materials.

- Slim :)

... which it isn't.

That's the same as buying a used car.

It is absolutely fruit-loops to buy a used car, without at first getting it checked out or examined by a mechanic. Otherwise, a person who suspects that his engine or transmission is going bad, can easily unload a $20,000 vehicle upon any unsuspecting buyer.

C'mon! You know better than that!

AND- Most of the time defects in carbon fiber can be detected with sonar and other hi-tech devices, but sometimes they fail.

- Slim

"frames: (frame, fork structure, swing arm): Cannondale
frames (except frames for freeride, and dirt jumping bikes,
see below) are warranted by cycling sports group, inc., 16
trowbridge drive, bethel, ct 06801 against manufacturing
defects in materials and/or workmanship for the lifetime of
the original owner. "

you will be taking your chances on any frame.

ftfy. :d

So you see, I'm not so misinformed. I can provide you links to experts who have previously stated that which I'm stating today. That's something that I always try to do, is to stay current with frame materials.

- Slim :)

I guess you're right. I suppose that, instead of "misinformed" I should have said that you're "selectively ignorant" and refuse to understand that your concerns are already noted and corrected, and that you'd rather keep parroting (to borrow a term I like) old information that hasn't applied to bicycle manufacturing.

I guess you're right. I suppose that, instead of "misinformed" I should have said that you're "selectively ignorant" and refuse to understand that your concerns are already noted and corrected, and that you'd rather keep parroting (to borrow a term I like) old information that hasn't applied to bicycle manufacturing.

Well, sir. I'm open for correction. There's nothing I'd like more than for someone as intelligent as yourself, to direct me to literature, a website, or perhaps a video that will completely update me on the latest developments in carbon fiber technology. Since you seem to know what's been out-dated as "old information", perhaps you wouldn't mind guiding me to a dependable informational resource.

I'd appreciate it, immensely.

I thank you in advance.

Most Respectfully,

- Slim :)

PS.

Please list references or resources.

1. People like the Synapse, and I probably would still be riding one if I had gotten a Synapse instead of a one-size-off CAAD8.
2. No, can't tell much from the pic. It looks store-spec, all-original including the front & rear reflectors. It's got 9-speed Tiagra, which comes on carbon bikes from shops in the US still twice the price (US$) that the seller is asking. So,...
3. Yeah, that price sounds pretty good to me. I sold my CAAD8 with the same wheels and 105 for $700, I think, and that's half the price that it was new, too.
4. If you're going to lock it up with a chain to a fence, you might get it nicked up pretty bad. The same could happen with thin-walled aluminum, though, but carbon can be repaired, too, if necessary.

There's been an older OCLV carbon Trek that looks like a commuter bike regularly chained to a rack on the street near my workplace. I figure it's fine.


wow, you could decode which specific gears it houses.. and you were spot on. also you were right in that, he has stripped it down to OE spec in current pic. at the risk of being slammed, here is the other option that i have for approximately the same price - presuming the synapse is in perfect working order, what would be your recommendation...

1. (used) synapse - specs - http://www.bikepedia.com/quickbike/BikeSpecs.aspx?Year=2010&Brand=Cannondale&Model=Synapse+Carbon+6+Triple&Type=bike
2. (Brand new) Trek 1.2 or 1.5 - http://www.firefoxbikes.com/Trek_Road_Bike12.html

Please note, i cant go above this budget at this point.. and pardon me if i have derailed the topic..


EDIT: i have been assured by the seller that the bike hasn't been dropped even once and that it's been in good care. only that he hasn't taken it out since he got his CAAD 10. all this while, it been lying in his gym and not outdoors..

wow, you could decode which specific gears it houses.. and you were spot on. also you were right in that, he has stripped it down to OE spec in current pic. at the risk of being slammed, here is the other option that i have for approximately the same price - presuming the synapse is in perfect working order, what would be your recommendation...

1. (used) synapse - specs - http://www.bikepedia.com/quickbike/BikeSpecs.aspx?Year=2010&Brand=Cannondale&Model=Synapse+Carbon+6+Triple&Type=bike
2. (Brand new) Trek 1.2 or 1.5 - http://www.firefoxbikes.com/Trek_Road_Bike12.html

Please note, i cant go above this budget at this point.. and pardon me if i have derailed the topic..


EDIT: i have been assured by the seller that the bike hasn't been dropped even once and that it's been in good care. only that he hasn't taken it out since he got his CAAD 10. all this while, it been lying in his gym and not outdoors..

Hello there JensonJ,

Carbon fiber promises to evlove much more within the next few years. Like computers, the CF you buy today will be outdated in a couple more years or so.

I say, spend your good money on the Trek 1.2 road bike. It has Tiagra and Sora components. Tiagra is quite acceptable. The next step up would be 105, which is very good! Right now, your price is at a very good price for the Trek 1.2.
I would highly recommend either the Trek 1.5 (Tiagra) or the Trek 2.1 (105's).

- Slim :)

PS.

I would recommend in this order:

1) Trek 2.1

2) Trek 1.5

3) Trek 1.2

So you're advising this guy to place 25 or 28mm tires on his bike to traverse "crappy" roads. This is not good advice. Also, 23mm tires are NOT typical! In general, one should always use the widest tire they can possibly mount on their bike for exclusively, "crappy" roads.

:rolleyes:

For road bikes, in the US, 23mm tires are be typical (and overwhemingly so!). 23 mm is what typically comes with the bikes and it's typically what people buy.

Typically, these kinds of bikes are limited in the size of tires they can use. Typically, 28 mm is pushing it.

It is interesting that the Synapses now come with 25 mm tires. Before 2011, they all came with 23 mm tires!

http://www.bikepedia.com/QuickBike/BikeSpecs.aspx?Year=2010&Brand=Cannondale&Model=Synapse+Carbon+6+Compact&Type=bike



So, on one hand, you're telling this guy that my advice is "unusual and not necessarily well-informed", then suddenly you flip and tell him to be cautious.
Yes, he should be cautious about everything (including your weird advice). There's no contradiction.

=============

Why do you keep messing-up the quoting?

i had some good discussion with the seller. he seems to be a genuine fellow and has assured me im getting a good product, which isnt damaged by any standards. he expressed how he doesnt feel he'll ride the carbon 6 anymore after getting the CAAD 10. he loves the performance of CAAD 10.

i guess, ill go for it. coz, even if i wish to go for trek 1.2, it would still be expensive by lets say $150-$200. Trek 1.5 ($1140) Trek 2.1 is simply out of my reach ($1450).

Any suggestions before i seal the deal...? please recommend based on the sellers feedback that the bike is in good condition. if you folks still feel a Trek 1.2 or 1.5 would be a decent bet, im willing to wait and reconsider my purchase.

in the end i want a bike which would offer an exciting, long and speedy ride.

thanks guys, i truly appreciate everyones inputs.

Some thoughts:

1. SlimRider is ignorant of many things bike related, but makes up for it with his certainty.
2. Any used bike purchased on the internet is somewhat of a risk
3.Although the seller has indicated that the bike is insured until May (I assume you are referring to the warranty), warranties in the b
icyle industry are not transferrable fromt he original owner. All used bicycles are purchased 'as-is' with no warranty fromt he manufacturer.
4. I was at a bike shop yesterday and all the 'high performance' road tires in stock were 23mm width. This agrees with my previous experience and visits to other shop. THat is indeed by far the most common size in north america.

DCB0 says:

1
. SlimRider is ignorant of many things bike related, but makes up for it with his certainty.

We all are ignorant about many things! That's just the overall condition of human beings. Didn't you know that?....Probably not, due to your own personal ignorance. * I highly suspect that you're just jealous :D


2. Any used bike purchased on the internet is somewhat of a risk

I already said that, copycat!


3.Although the seller has indicated that the bike is insured until May (I assume
you are referring to the warranty), warranties in the bicyle industry are not
transferrable fromt he original owner. All used bicycles are purchased 'as-is'
with no warranty fromt he manufacturer.

Yet, another cautionary warning. Just like I've already stated, purchasing used carbon fiber is generally not advisable!


4. I was at a bike shop yesterday and all the 'high performance' road tires in stock were 23mm width. This agrees with my previous experience and visits to other shop. THat is indeed by far the most common size in north america.

Yes, size 23mm are typical for road racing or road bikes, but not advisable for road bikes that routinely traverse "crappy" roads. In general, the wider the tire, the better, when dealing with poor or "crappy" roads.

- Slim

well, im a newbie...and i feel point is been made..without sounding rude.. i would truly appreciate if you kind gentleman could help me with my request..

as with any forum, it's the collective decision that matters..

well, im a newbie...and i feel point is been made..without sounding rude.. i would truly appreciate if you kind gentleman could help me with my request..

as with any forum, it's the collective decision that matters..

I'm trying to do my best, JensenJ!

Have you reviewed my last post to you?

What do you think about the Trek 1.5 and the Trek 2.1?

Are they acceptable to you?

- Slim :)

PS.

I feel that I must apologize for everyones behavior on this thread who has not addressed your problem appropriately. This includes myself.

So, I'm sorry, Jenson...Please accept my apology?

Thank you...

both are expensive and out of my range at this point. the way i look at it is.. i wont get a full carbon body bike at the said rate.. thats the dilemma im in.


I'm trying to do my best, JensenJ!

Have you reviewed my last post to you?

What do you think about the Trek 1.5 and the Trek 2.1?

Are they acceptable to you?

- Slim :)

If you think that I usually give poor advice, then use your quote function and point out, by highlighting, something specific that I've stated that was wrong.

What I said was "SlimRider's opinions are somewhat unusual and not necessarily well-informed".

I didn't say "poor" at all.

And all that I was recommending is that people look at what you (or anybody) wrote to evaluate for themselves.

This rather-obvious recommendation seems to bother you for some reason.


Size 23mm is typical for road bikes, but not typical for bikes that routinely traverse "crappy" roads!
You seem to be forgetting that we are talking about a road bike that came with 23mm tires. I was recommending that he use wider tires than 23 mm.


...I usually give good advice I'm told, and have been told that, throughout the entirety of my life.
:)

well, im a newbie...and i feel point is been made..without sounding rude.. i would truly appreciate if you kind gentleman could help me with my request..

as with any forum, it's the collective decision that matters..

I cannot see the posting for the bike for sale, but if it seems to be in good condition, comes from a reputable seller, and is the right size then I would buy it.

THere are risks to buying a used bike. All these risks have been stated, from the most cautious naysayers to the most positive. All these opinions have exactly the same value (~=0), as do all opinions on the internet. As SlimRider said, all people are ignorant, and we all have our own predjudices and past experiences colouring our opinions, and clouding our judgement. You must decide whether the deal is good enough to take the risk, because you are th eone taking the risk.

The vast majority of people who buy used bikes, carbon or otherwise, are satisfied, but occaisionally some unscrupulous sellers sneak through and try to hide damage or lie about the condition of the bike.

The Cannondale bike model you are looking at is a very very good bike and the price is very good. If the bike is a good fit for you then you will likely wind up with a very very good bike at a very good price. Good luck!

both are expensive and out of my range at this point. the way i look at it is.. i wont get a full carbon body bike at the said rate.. thats the dilemma im in.
It's a good bike at a good price. No one here can tell whether it's in a reasonable condition. If you could have the bike looked at by someone you trust and is experienced, that would be a good thing to do.

both are expensive and out of my range at this point. the way i look at it is.. i wont get a full carbon body bike at the said rate.. thats the dilemma im in.

Hi again there, Jensen!

I would never advise that anyone purchase a used carbon fiber bicycle. That's something you can do at your own risk. If bicycle experts or authorities can personally advise you and warranty the frame, then yes, by all means, purchase used carbon fiber. If not, the best and safest advice to give, will always be, to pass on the offer.

At this point, I can only suggest that you invest in a nice chromoly steel-framed road bike, like a Jamis Satellite Comp, a Raleigh Grand Prix, a Surly Cross Check, or something like that. New or used, it won't matter, as long as there is no rust, and the welds are good.

Alternatively, that aluminum-framed bike that you've already alluded to, was also a nice bike. The Trek 1.2 was a delightful road bike! It has a Tiagra rear derailleur and a Sora front derailleur. Those are very decent entry-level components!

I would recommend the Trek 1.2 for certain!

- Slim :)

i truly value each one of your suggestions. i think ill do more groundwork before i make my decision. the seller has offered me to send over any professional to inspect his bike. unfortunatly, i have none in the region he is based. i'm in mumbai and he is based in Chennai which is other end of india..

once again, im truly touched by the concern and thoughtful input everyone exercises here towards newbies. rarely does one see this kind of contribution on other forums.

i truly value each one of your suggestions. i think ill do more groundwork before i make my decision. the seller has offered me to send over any professional to inspect his bike. unfortunatly, i have none in the region he is based. i'm in mumbai and he is based in Chennai which is other end of india..

once again, im truly touched by the concern and thoughtful input everyone exercises here towards newbies. rarely does one see this kind of contribution on other forums.

Hi there JensenJ!

Just a few more things:

Should you decide to purchase a chromoly steel bicycle, just remember that it most probably will last for decades, if kept dry. You will always be able to add better components to it, or "upgrade" your bicycle, at your leisure.

I've seen cyclists with twenty-year old chromoly bicycles that were freshly painted professionally, had upgraded components, and they looked completely brand new.

Most of these chromoly steel bicycles will still be around after carbon fiber has technologically evolved or transistioned to a more stable state.

- Slim :)

Hi there JensenJ!

Just a few more things:

Should you decide to purchase a chromoly steel bicycle, just remember that it most probably will last for decades, if kept dry. You will always be able to add better components to it, or "upgrade" your bicycle, at your leisure.

I've seen cyclists with twenty-year old chromoly bicycles that were freshly painted professionally, had upgraded components, and they looked completely brand new.

Most of these chromoly steel bicycles will still be around after carbon fiber has technologically evolved or transistioned to a more stable state.

- Slim :)

Again, SlimRider's confidence has eclipsed his ignorance.

There is nothing about steel that makes it a necessarily better bicycle. A lightweight steel bike frame is generally less stong than a mid weight carbon bike frame (even though the carbon would still be lighter). I have broken several frames in my life and all were steel. I have ridden many miles on lightweight aluminum frames without a problem. Many others have ridden carbon bikes without problems.


Pound-for-pound, carbon fibre is generally stronger than steel.
Lightweight steel bikes are probably the most fragile of all bikes.

Please do not let SlimRider's confidence and number of posts fool you into thinking he knows what he is talking about - he doesn't.

I cannot see the posting for the bike for sale, but if it seems to be in good condition, comes from a reputable seller, and is the right size then I would buy it.


kind sir, here is the link to the actual product in discussion - http://postimage.org/image/2phxo41fo/

and hey, thanks for the best wishes :)

jensonj: At the risk of inflaming others in this thread further and being rather new around here too I'll try to keep this on topic.

1: the Synapse is a exciting bike to ride and from your stated goals will reward you with plenty of speed and not beat you to death at the same time.

2: The photo doesn't give any clues whatsoever as to it's current condition and only shows one side of the bike. The photo is dated I'm guessing to shortly after the person bought it. I would be asking for more current photos of all angles of the bike.

3: Price seem plenty fair to me. I paid more for my 2009 105 Alloy 5 last July but it did have new upgraded wheels and tires.

4: Rough ride is relative to the one riding it. I'm a old guy (50) and was pleasantly surprised at how well my bike rides. I'm sure since this one is full carbon it will be every bit as smooth.

As far as buying used. As already stated there is always a risk buying used. However that is not to say it's a bad idea and shouldn't be considered. As I stated I bought my bike used on Ebay and used the feedback system to get a feel of how honest the seller was. From the sounds of it you have had contact with this seller and starting to feel comfortable that this person is honest. Believe it or not there are many such people in the world!

What I would do next is seek out a bike shop in this persons area and see if they would be willing to look the bike over (for a fee of course) for you. This will also show the owners interest of helping and further show their honesty. If they refuse to be willing to do this at this point I might be inclined to step away and wait for another bike to come along. The bonus is this shop could be used to assist in shipping of the bike.

Good luck and if you do end up with the bike ride and enjoy the heck out if!!!

fasthair

jensonj: At the risk of inflaming others in this thread further and being rather new around here too I'll try to keep this on topic.

1: the Synapse is a exciting bike to ride and from your stated goals will reward you with plenty of speed and not beat you to death at the same time.

2: The photo doesn't give any clues whatsoever as to it's current condition and only shows one side of the bike. The photo is dated I'm guessing to shortly after the person bought it. I would be asking for more current photos of all angles of the bike.

3: Price seem plenty fair to me. I paid more for my 2009 105 Alloy 5 last July but it did have new upgraded wheels and tires.

4: Rough ride is relative to the one riding it. I'm a old guy (50) and was pleasantly surprised at how well my bike rides. I'm sure since this one is full carbon it will be every bit as smooth.

As far as buying used. As already stated there is always a risk buying used. However that is not to say it's a bad idea and shouldn't be considered. As I stated I bought my bike used on Ebay and used the feedback system to get a feel of how honest the seller was. From the sounds of it you have had contact with this seller and starting to feel comfortable that this person is honest. Believe it or not there are many such people in the world!

What I would do next is seek out a bike shop in this persons area and see if they would be willing to look the bike over (for a fee of course) for you. This will also show the owners interest of helping and further show their honesty. If they refuse to be willing to do this at this point I might be inclined to step away and wait for another bike to come along. The bonus is this shop could be used to assist in shipping of the bike.

Good luck and if you do end up with the bike ride and enjoy the heck out if!!!

fasthair

thanks for chipping in kind sir. appreciate your line of thought.

the pic is recent.. the seller did send some other pics, close up of gears et al.. he also did send earlier pics of the same bike; they were fully loaded with gadgets and white handlebar wrap...seems like a genuine person who doesn't feel there's need for two bikes.. especially after riding his brand new CAAD 10-3 with all ultegra components.

thanks for chipping in kind sir. appreciate your line of thought.

the pic is recent.. the seller did send some other pics, close up of gears et al.. he also did send earlier pics of the same bike; they were fully loaded with gadgets and white handlebar wrap...seems like a genuine person who doesn't feel there's need for two bikes.. especially after riding his brand new CAAD 10-3 with all ultegra components.

You're very welcome young man.

The only other thing I want to repeat is just make sure it is the right size. I'm 6' with a 33" inseam and my Synapse is a 56 which I suspect would fit you as well with maybe just some minor tweaks.

I can sure understand the owner feeling like he only needs one bike even though I am a N+1 kind of guy :)

fasthair