stachledraht

Hey guys I am new to the whole fixed gear bike scene and am currently trying to buy my first bike. I was on Craigslist and someone was offering a 2006 Giant Bowery for $450. I have no idea if this is a good deal or not and have since gotten him down to $300. Here is a link to the bike. Can you please let me know what you think. Turns out the cranks, and pedals are actually stock. According to the poster the only upgrades are presta vaves, oury grips, straight handlebars, a presta adapter, and an upgraded brake lever - which seems like pretty minor stuff to me. Also I am 6'4 wilth a 33"/34" inseam and will manly be using this to bike a few blocks to class (max 10 blocks one way). SOOO what do you guys think how much is this bike really worth and does it sound like a good fit for me?

I am just a n00b and trying to not get taken advantage of! Thanks in advance, it is much appreciated!

https://philadelphia.craigslist.org/bik/1502955970.html

odie91

Definitely would not pay $450 for it. $300 is a fair price, but not a deal. Depends on how soon you want a bike. I think that Bowery is nasty though, so personally wouldn't pay more than $200.

clutchy

he says it's a 58cm frame? if you're 6'4'' it's not going to fit you very well. I would think you'd be somewhere in the low 60's for frame size.

bike seems decent if it fits you why not, but i do think it will be too small.

stachledraht

Your advice is much appreciated. I am really eager to get a bike and was hoping this would be a good deal/find. From your feedback I think I will pass and wait for a better option. Thanks again for your prompt responses!

spcialzdspksman

Worst thing to do when starting fixed is going headfirst, blind with loads of cash.
It happened to me and I am not proud. You should do some researching on BF and google first (many many hours of reading), then actually test ride bikes at a shop before actually buying anything.
Learn from my mistakes.
Be patient.

preston811

I agree 58 isn't gonna fit you well. Is your inseam really 33/34? Is that your pants inseam? Measure it instead by cramming a book up in your crotch, up against a wall in socks. My inseam is 34.25 and I'm 5'11", so if yours is really 33/34, you must have a long ass reach, so while a 58cm may fit you ok for standover, that's really no measurement of good bike fit. The reach to the bars will be too short for you, and that's the biggest factor of bike fit. Go to a LBS and get fit imo.

ichitz

+1 on going to test ride in the LBS. No one can really tell you how well a bike is going to fit except you. We can only guess-timate for u. I test rode a bunch of bikes in 7 different bike stores before purchasing my first. Good luck!

spcialzdspksman

This might help you out with your fit:
https://www.competitivecyclist.com/za...LCULATOR_INTRO