The guy who runs Bikes Direct frequents this forum. You can contact him directly.
Their bikes are adequate, but if some free service, being able to swap stems / saddles / pedals at minimal cost as part of the sale, getting the bike properly fitted to you, getting it assembled, etc., etc., etc. have any value to you, you may be better off at your local bike shop.
Bikes Direct prices ARE better, but having owned one and found myself needing to swap parts to get it fitted properly / replace a few total POS parts (cheap plastic toe clips, etc.), I'd be more inclined to take an LBS seriously next time (and that's with a co-op 1.5 miles from my house).
Go to several of your local bike shops. Find one that's got a vibe you can deal with, tell them what you've been looking at, what you're looking for, and see how they can do. They may give you a solid deal, or they may make you feel more determined to order one up from BD.
Originally Posted by
Bazaaretw
So I am new to the bike scene, and I'm looking to get in to it. But looking around for my first bike has been interesting to say the least.
I've been trying to look for a nice good quality reasonably price used bike and have failed, but still on the look out.
The other part of me just wants to buy one of these cheap new bikes from a bike outlet on ebay (
http://cgi.ebay.com/2009-BOTTECCHIA-...ht_4671wt_1166) or from a site like: (
http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/road_bikes.htm) But I fear that I might be taken for a ride (pun intended) and really be getting a poor quality bike.
I would love to hear feedback, any stories from others who have boughten one of these off brand / factory direct road bikes. Or if you know something I don't know please clue me in.
Thanks,
Zech