Jay88

Hi everyone. I have done a handful of triathlons on my Wal-Mart Kent Roadtech and I am finally ready to upgrade. I have two bikes in my price range, but honestly I dont have a clue which bike is better. I would really like your guys and gals expect advice. The two bikes that I can get used are:
2011 Trek 1.5 $425
2016 Cannondale CAAD 8 Tigra 6 $500

I primarily use my bike on short triathlons 15 miles or so. Which bike would you recommend or is there something else I should look for? Will I notice a huge difference from my steel $100 Wal-Mart bike?

Thanks

DomaneS5

$425 is a little high for a used 1.5. I'd offer $350 for it.

A used Trek 1.5 would be a major upgrade over a Wal Mart road bike.

MRT2

Either would be a major upgrade over a Wal Mart bike. Do they both fit the same? If so, I would think the 2016 would have a lot less wear and tear than a 2011.

europa

Yes, even if the 2011 bike has just been sitting, there's a lot can pack up in that time - you'd at least need tyres, tubes and cables (assuming it's just been sitting). Of course, if it's been ridden and meticulously maintained, it might be a good option.
Unless the 2016 bike has been hammered, and that happens (we've got people on here doing 5,000 miles a year), it's got to have less wear... which doesn't mean it's going to be in better condition.

But the fit is the most important thing. No point buying a bike if it doesn't fit.

Craptacular8

They are similarly equipped, though the cannondale has a newer 10-speed version of Tiagra versus the 9-speed older generation on the Trek. I haven't ridden the caad8, but do have an older model of the 1.5, and find it to be a very comfortable and competent bike. I'd test ride both and go with the one that fits best, or is the most fun to ride.

Jay88

Thank you for all of your help. I really appreciate it.