Beginner Unsure on First Bike
 

Hello, I'm pretty much a total beginner to the world of cycling, but I would like to start getting some exercise that also involves getting out of the house. I have an extremely small budget, but even if I did have a larger budget, I don't want to spend that much until I'm sure that I'll stick with it. From reading through these forums, I hear that the best option would be to go to my local bike shop and get fitted and all that, but as I said, I just really don't have the money for that. I am 6'0'' and weigh about 230lbs. I was browsing my local craigslist and found 2 bikes that seem promising and would like some opinions on which one to purchase. I will most likely only be using the bike in my neighborhood (paved streets, sidewalks and all that). I'm looking for feedback on the price as well as the bikes' suitability for my needs. Any help is appreciated.

The bikes:

2008 Trek 4300 ($250)
http://orlando.craigslist.org/bik/3748068021.html
http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=313033

Or

TREK MOUNTAIN TRACK 820 ($120)
http://orlando.craigslist.org/bik/3760541791.html
http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=313034

welcome Rudy these two bike you're looking at seem to be just fine for what you want, I take it they're in the price range,,I say buy the one that fits right , the one thats most comfortable to you when sitting on it! go ride it before you pay, once you ride for awhile you'll know alittle more and later on you'll buy the bike that was built for you!!!!!

+1

I agree with Fast.

Also, since you live in "flat" Florida, can't u get a brand new single speed from Performance that has a warranty.

www.performancebike.com/bikes/Product_10052_10551_1129145_-1_400317_400317

Thanks Fast, I would be more willing to go try them out if they were closer to home. That is an interesting deal, Cfiber. It kills my budget, but it might be doable. I probably shouldn't expect to get off cheap with a quality bike. I would definitely feel better with a warranty. Thanks for the info guys.

I have what looks to be the exact same size and model Trek 820. The one shown is in very good condition. For $120, it's a deal, and I'd jump on it quickly. However, it may be too tall for you (my inseam is about 33"). Definitely worth a test ride.

I think my inseam is about 33", not sure exactly. I was more interested in the Trek anyways, but I wasn't sure it was a good deal. Do you know what year yours is? They didnt list it in the ad.

Go with this one and put some smooth tires on it.

Your First bike is a Learning bike.

http://images.craigslist.org/3E33J53...21f8e81286.jpg

So $120 is good for the Trek 820, assuming everything is in working order on it?

No idea on the year, mine was used also. Much rougher shape than the one shown here. Maybe relatively old, because it has a 7-speed rear wheel. It was planned to be my bad weather bike, with fenders and a mix of weird parts mostly from my junk box. Been riding it lately, and it's a fun bike.

There's no guarantee that those used bikes won't cost u at least hundred more bucks to place them in tip top shape.

*Think new single speed from Perormance*