mrdelprete

I am 22 lbs away from being under 200lbs for the first time since I was 14 (32 now). I was close to 300lbs at one point. Running and biking have saved my life. When I get under 200lbs I ge to reward myself with a "new" bike. I say "new" because it will most likely be something I find on craigslist, but a lot nicer than my current 26 lb aluminum and steel downtube shifting patriotic looking workhorse you see as my profile picture. The only thing is, I find myself drawn to walmart....... https://www.walmart.com/ip/700c-Mens-...d-Bike/5585800 ............ It does look sweet, carbon rear, fork, seatpost, and part of the handlebars, and I really like to pictures others have posted online. My impulse is to get it when I reach my goal, but my brain keeps saying wait until something much nicer comes up for the same price on craigs list. Your thoughts?

Neil_B

Craigslist.

bautieri

If you want a new bike, and I fully understand the draw to it, shop bikesdirect.com and pick out something with MUCH better gear for the same price. That Schwinn is way overpriced for and would be no better than a bike that requires some very slight assembly from bikesdirect. I'm not a shill for BD, I don't own any of their bikes, but from what I've heard from people who do own them, they seem to like them quite a bit.

RVH

I would spend some quality time online doing research and at a good LBS to find out what size you need, and some basic fitting things specific for you. I don't like Craigslist at all as it's full of people who have no idea about what a bike is worth. Just look at how many people don't put the size nor an accurate description of the bike itself. I bought a $5500 bike off of ebay for $1900 and then spent $250 on professional fitting and some new parts (stem, saddle, etc).

I'd rather see you get a bike that really fits you, one that you will WANT to ride because it's comfortable. I don't think you will get that from WalMart or Criagslist.

Bob

jethro56 

+1 Make absolutely certain you know the correct size frame.

sgrobben

Go get fit at your LBS so you know approximately what size frame to look for. Bring them your future business when buying accessories/parts. You will find a much nicer bike on Craigslist ( be patient ) or bikesdirect.com. I would avoid the Walmart bike, it is not of the appropriate quality to celebrate your accomplishment. Try to stay away from cheap carbon parts, especially when you're still near the heavier end of the spectrum.