Hello,

I have an offer to purchase a Specialized Sport Comfort '04 for $185. Should I take it or should I just buy new? I was originally thinking of buying the Raleigh C-40 or Trek 7100 for about $300. The used bike has been ridden for only about 15 miles. I'll be using the bike for recreational purposes, such as bike on the weekends for about an hour or bike to work once in a while (which is about 10 miles). Is the Specialized Sport Comfort comparable to the two I mentioned? I've ridden both Raleigh and Trek and they feel about the same.

Thanks.

Hello,

I have an offer to purchase a Specialized Sport Comfort '04 for $185. Should I take it or should I just buy new? I was originally thinking of buying the Raleigh C-40 or Trek 7100 for about $300. The used bike has been ridden for only about 15 miles. I'll be using the bike for recreational purposes, such as bike on the weekends for about an hour or bike to work once in a while (which is about 10 miles). Is the Specialized Sport Comfort comparable to the two I mentioned? I've ridden both Raleigh and Trek and they feel about the same.

Thanks.

You could do some research on the other bikes you mentioned and see if they're comparable in price and hardware but the best bike is the one that suits your needs. If it's comfortable then go for it. Your first few rides will amount to more miles than is currently on the bike. I'd say have someone take a look at it to make sure nothing's wrong. I've got a Trek 7200fx and I've gotten a good 20 easy miles in 6 days. Very comfortable and easy to ride.

Make sure the bike (size) fits you - there are different size frames for different size (height) riders.

Don't buy a bike because it's cheap. Buy it because it fits. If the used bike happens to be the right size, then it might be worth considering.

If you're talking about a Specialized Crossroads Sport, it's very similiar to a Trek 7100.

One advantage of buying new from a bike shop is that they'll spend some time with you helping fit the bike to you. If you're on a comfortable bike that fits you well, you'll be more likely to want to get out there on it and ride!.

Another advantage is that they mostly include some sort of maintenance plan on the bike for you. Most will at least give a 30 day tuneup. After the first few rides on a new bike cables will usually stretch a bit and need a bit of adjustment. Some bike shops will even offer lifetime adjustments on the bike, usually for the original buyer only. Something to think about... it can save a heckuva lot of money for you in the long run, plus in buying new you'll be able to develop a relationship with the shop.