Originally Posted by pinetreeforest1
Well the thing is, I know I want to go with either the Giant OCR3, or the Fuji Roubaix. I've been scouring craigslist like a hawk and these bikes haven't come up for me in a month, so I've deiced to go new for several reasons involving my own previous experience buying used. So which one do I go with? I already have the patch kit, pump, helmet, shoes etc., and I could care less about a computer. Hmmmmm. 575$ for a new Giant, or 800$ for the Fuji.
Well I guess I'd go with the Fuji... but again, I wouldn't spend 575-800 bucks on a new bike, you just get a lot more bang for your buck buying used at that price point.
If your concerns with buying used are about getting ripped off, or buying something that has issues or whatever... go with a friend who knows bikes.
Another option, and something many good sellers are open to (once you're pretty far along in the buying process) is to get the prospective bike checked out by a local bike shop mechanic.
You pay for the checkup, and if it passes (or needs something minor like a wheel truing or derailleur adjustment) you buy the bike. If the bike is in bad shape, the deal is void... maybe you can even talk a few bucks off the bike to cover any minor work it may need done...