Originally Posted by
lotekmod
I almost always buy used and here's my logic: I can either pay $$ for a decent bike brand new or I can pay $$ for a $$$ awesome bike that is used. I'd much rather get the best equipment I can for my dollar than have ok stuff that is shiny for a month or two.
+1, I do the same as lotekmod. Within the last year I purchased a used dual sus and hardtail Stumpjumpers for less than the cost of one new one. Both were in very good condition and well worth the price. However, I'd be very careful about buying used carbon frames. If at all possible, buy locally and ask the seller to meet you at your bike shop where a qualified mechanic can look over the frame before you buy. I did that on a used carbon MTB. The mechanic reviewing it noted that the model I was considering was known for having bottom bracket mount/housing problems and when the bottom bracket mount/housing went, the frame was worthless. I dodged that bullet and passed on the frame. Recommend you do the same if you're buying composite. I did NOT have the alloy bikes inspected but only had very minor problems with each