ModernMacgyver

Hey, just wanted to ask an opinion on buying my first road bike. I am used to running my Rockhopper Disc every where I go, and also do dedicated rides with it, but have decided that I want a road bike now to do just road rides and start riding with local groups around here. Anyways, cut to the chase, I'm looking at older used bikes and also new, and am seeking an opinion on which would be better to go with given my circumstances. I'm not sure if I want to pursue racing just yet, maybe in the future, but for now just riding around town, hillclimbs, etc. I was looking at the Trek 1.2 or Specialized Allez (brand new), but I also have been looking on Craigslist and someone is offering a Lemond Tourmalet (not sure the year, appears to be early 2000's) for $276. Is it worth it to go with a brand new bike, or can older classics like a Lemond be sufficient? I've also seen old Lemonds on there going for upwards of $1000, but I'm a college student on a budget. Anyways any input/advice on this would be greatly appreciated!

colombo357

College students have tons of free time. Get a part time job. Computer lab "techs" have it easy.

ptle

Older bikes are sufficient for road riding. I use to do group rides on an '89 Bianchi 14 speed. If you're buying a used bike try to get something with decent components. Downtube shifters aren't bad, but I prefer brifters. $276 doesn't seem like a bad deal for a Tourmalet... just factor in any extra costs like replacing the chain, tires, cassette, etc.


Also, I don't understand why people think college students have a lot of free time. I get aid in paying for school, but I also have two jobs to pay for food, rent, etc. It's not like the small part time jobs I have pay a lot either. Also, if I'm taking a full load of classes, that's almost like having a full time job because of the amount of hours put into going to school and work outside of school.

Regardless, it shouldn't matter whether the OP is a college student or not. The main issue is that they're on a budget. Your advice doesn't help the issue the OP has.

ModernMacgyver

Thanks PTLE, I actually am a full-time student AND do have a full-time job as of right now until school starts again, but I am still on a budget with financial aid as well. Also, just because I do have a job doesn't mean I can afford any bike I'd like...my Rockhopper was a gift, or else I couldn't afford that either. Just looking for something that's not going to break the bank and I can start getting used to until I feel it's time to upgrade. There's tons more road groups/rides in my town than MTB so that's why I'm also looking into becoming a road rider as well.

Also, the Tourmalet has been serviced and parts upgraded on it, there wouldn't be much I would have to do to it, and it looks really nice; I'm hoping it's still available!

Chef151

Quick, get the tourmalet.

ModernMacgyver

My thoughts exactly Chef151 haha, I've emailed the guy and patiently waiting for a reply...hope it's not sold, and if I get it I'll post up some pictures.