darylbe

Hey all. I'm on the hunt for a used bike (or 2. or 3) and want to use it (them) for commutes, around town, and some long weekend rides.

First. The commute. 8.5 miles each way, paved. Typically flat, with hills at the end. Ok.

Previous bike was a junk bike from sears or whatever. Royce Union. Estimated 100 lbs in weight. lol. (ok, weighed it just now. 36 #) But I would put on 30+ mile trips pretty often two summers ago.

Ive been looking regularly for the past 3 weeks. i find a bike, search the forums, and get an idea of how it is, it's value, etc. Decided to make a thread and share the quest with you all.

I am thinking of a lighter road bike for when it's nice, and then a hybrid w/ fenders and rack for when it's wet out.

I haven not been on any yet to test ride, but still want to get a good idea beforehand.

1-LBS showed me a Giant Cypress and a Giant Escape (probably escape 3), listed at 450 and $330.
2-Giant OCR3 listed on CL for $289
3- 1988 Cannondale Criterium listed 260.
4- Another guy has a trek 830 antelope and a shogun 300. In dreamworld, they are both in great condition and fit perfectly and I can get them both for 175.

I spoke with #3 today. Wanted to check #4 today, but ended up leaving voicemail and havent heard back.

Cheers

DB

darylbe

Visited the guy with the Shogun 300. Pretty sure he wasn't "all there." Now, I don't think that I am "all there," but this was not in a good way. So that was the first bike that I rode. Tonight was my second- Met to check out a 1988 Peugeot Monaco for $60. Frame is in great condition, I saw Shimano derailleurs (not sure beyond that), couldnt get serial off of bike (looking at it at 1030 at night). as far as types of material, and all that, couldnt find any of that info on it, but will try to learn more tomorrow.

Took it for a quick mile spin which was nice. Lighter than the 36 pound beast... will weigh it tomorrow. I think the tires need to be replaced, but I expected that.

Super excited. Woohoo.

tjspiel

Of the things on your list the OCR3 is a good value at $289 if it's in good shape. I'd skip the Cannondale unless you're OK with a harsh ride because that's what the older ones are known for.

For $60 the Peugeot Monaco isn't terribly bad. It was their bottom of the line road bike at about that time. I'm guessing it has friction shifters which some people are OK with but many many people prefer indexed. You'd probably be much happier spending the extra money and getting the OCR instead.

Edit: Wasn't clear on whether you actually bought the Peugeot or not. It sounds like maybe you did and if so forget what I said about the OCR being better. I mean it is, but for $60 you don't have a lot invested in the Peugeot and if it doesn't work out I'm sure you can get at least that much for it if you decided to sell. You may end up liking it just fine and you'd have to spend a lot more to get something equivalent around here.

Have fun !

blakcloud

If I didn't know a lot about bikes, I would buy new from a bike shop. They would hopefully steer you in the right direction.

Older bikes may look good on the outside but it is the inside I worry about. When was the last time the bottom bracket or hubs were overhauled or at least had grease put in them? Are the spokes 20 years old and have oxidized enough to break? I am not say8ing buying an old bike is a bad thing but you need to know what you to look for so that it doesn't become a money pit.

I agree with Tjs...the Cannondale is not an appropriate bike for commuting, there are better choices.

darylbe

Thanks for the responses.

TJ, after you mentioned it, I reread my post and realized I didnt actually say it. But I did buy the Peugoet lsat night.

I was pretty anxious, and this will serve it's purpose for now. I will still search shops for a decent new hybrid, and the $60 really won't impact the decision at all (as opposed to if I bought something for $200, then was looking for another).

But yes, will stick to bike shop now, and hopefully learn a thing or two about bikes in the meantime as well.

Thanks again.

DB

tjspiel

By the 80's Peugeots were using pretty standard parts. He should be fine.

The only problem might be if it has a Heliocomatic rear hub. Those aren't unique to Peugeots and they've got some issues though a few people really liked them. It was a nice idea badly implemented. Freewheels that fit those would be hard to find.

I don't know if they were still around in 88 or not. Hopefully not. Anyway, getting a new rear wheel would be cheaper and easier than getting Heliocomatic parts.

WestPablo

Thanks for the info, @tjspiel!