icarus_

I'm definitely no expert about cycling and the such so I'll get to my question. Is this bike worth buying or should I keep looking?
Raleigh Technium 460 Aluminium

I plan to use it merely to commute to and from campus (~2-3 miles one way typically) which is quite hilly (most is 6% grade). I'm on a limited budget so anything less than $200 at the most is mainly what I'm going for. I'm in no hurry to purchase anything since have a few months. Also I'm roughly 5'10" and ~145 lbs and I don't know if it matters but around 30 in pants length so slightly smaller than that as inseam if had to guess.

Thanks!

Dirt Farmer

Is it worth it? Yes!

puckett129

If it fits it's definitely worth it. You would need to be fairly short (< 5'6") for that bike to work tho.

icarus_

Oh right and I'm roughly 5'10 145lbs. (updated OP) Might have been useful info

How can you tell what bike will fit certain personal height by chance? (if that makes sense)

puckett129

Well, the fact that the top tube and down tube touch where they meet means it likely a small frame. The listing says it's a 54 cm bike but I'd be suspicious of that. I've got a Raleigh Tecnhium that I'm working on building up right now and I just don't think that measurement is right. I'm 5'8" and ride a 52 cm frame, but I've got short legs. If you're normally proportioned you more than likely ride a 56 cm/22 in frame (when looking at road bikes). The problem is, this is not a hard and fast rule when it comes to fitting bikes.

If it truly is a 54, you could make it work, but again I don't think that it is. I have heard that these Technium frames were supposed to have long top tubes so that may be where the seller is getting the measurement from?

Here is a 54 cm Technium frame. It looks bigger than that bike.



If you've got a few months you can probably find what you're looking for on craigslist.

Edit: I see you added your height in the original post. So, given those measurements maybe a 52-54 frame with a longer stem.

WestPablo

I say, wait for a chromoly steel bicycle frame with a rigid fork...

Locate a bicycle co-op in your area. Try to work with co-op employees and volunteers in finding a proper bike for yourself.

Contact the campus police of your college. Try to find out if they conduct a bicycle auction for recovered stolen bikes and unclaimed college campus bikes.

Contact your city's police department. Determine if they conduct a bicycle auction for lost, unclaimed, or recovered stolen bicycles.

tjspiel

If your budget is $200 I don't think you can afford to be too religious about frame materials. Besides the Techniums were a combination of steel and aluminum. A transitional bike made in the US and somewhat unique. They literally don't make them like that anymore.

It would be cool to own one and it would be fine for the OP's intended purpose and more.

For $65 it is a steal. But I agree that it's probably not a 54 and probably is too small.

WestPablo

+1

There is much truth in what you're saying here, my friend...

However, like you say, it most probably doesn't fit

Tessou

With $200 and craigslist, you will definitely be able to find something that works. Both of my bikes were less than $200 each and they do perfectly well for my commutes. At your height, I'd look for a 21-23" frame. I'm about the same height as you and I ride 23". That's not the rule, though. My brother is a bit taller than me but has shorter legs (it's just as crazy as it sounds), and has to ride smaller bikes and/or mixte frames.

I find that the bike typically selects the rider. You'll sit on a prospective bike, and it'll let you know it's "the one".

bikemig 

This might be too big but it is an excellent commuter at $100: Trek 830

Look for used hybrids and mountain bikes with rigid (i.e., non suspension forks) for commuters. You get fat tires and lots of gearing for your hilly ride. Plust they tend not to cost as much as used road bikes.

puckett129

or this one.... Trek 750 Mountain Bike

just get new tires and a tune up and go!

icarus_

So I assume that any mountain bike (minus the shocks) that's geared will do the job? I thought mountain bike are typically a lot heavier than most road bike or anything you'd want to ride on street.
Also would it be worth swapping out the handlebars for a drop down one or not worry about it. I know new smooth and thinner tired are probably a most.

WestPablo

If you can find a bike that works and costs under $200, then don't make any modifications. Just make certain that it functions correctly and is safe to ride. It's important that your bike shifts smoothly, the brakes work perfectly, and that your handlebars are tightened properly.

Your bike should ride quietly...

Join a bicycle co-op so that you can become more familiar with bicycle mechanics. Your familiarity with bike mechanics will allow you to make needed repairs and desired upgrades in the future, if time permits.

bikemig 

MTBs are great for commuting; just find one without a front suspension shock. The only mods you need to think about are slicks (rather than knobbies) and if the flat bars aren't your thing, get a pair of trekking bars which work great and install readily on a mtb (since they use the same shifters and brake levers).

scroca

At six feet 10 inches you are going to have a tough time finding a bike that fits. But maybe not as tough as finding a pair of pants that fits a 145 lbs, 6'10" guy with an 30" inseam.

WestPablo

He's really 5' 10"

scroca

I know. I just couldn't resist.

scroca

I know. I just couldn't resist.

-=(8)=-

You are on the right track, but Im about your size and need a 56c. The bike in the pic looks no bigger than a 52. Might even be a fitty
Just for the purposes of encouragement, I buy these kinds of bikes from CL all the time. A totally bombproof commuter that will need nothing but a shot of WD-40 occasionally can be built for 300.00 if you take time to find the right starting project. Happy hunting!!

My general rule of . . . whatever
125.00 for bike
100.00 for tires
70.00 for lights and mirrors.
5.00 for can of WD40

icarus_

hahaha yeah I meant 5'10"...typo
Thanks for advice everyone! Seems I missed out on the most recent bike sale my university holds occasionally from bikes they confiscate and what not. So I'll just check around CL or wait till after semester and see when university has another sale.

byrd48

I would also say to look for an old rigid mtn bike and swap out the tires for street tires. You'll probably need a new chain and some lube, and maybe a seat. You def. can go that route within your $200 budget.

TransitBiker

That one in link does look kinda small.

- Andy