Hello. I'm looking at (3) different bikes right now and will probably purchase one of them soon. The first is a 2012 Cannondale Quick 4 that sells at REI for $629 minus the 10% or 15% they'll give me for being a member. The second is a 2011 Marin Fairfax that I found on sale at a local shop for $500. The third is a 2005 Marin Mill Valley on Craigslist that the seller says is "new in box" condition and has already set $600 as his lowest price. I already have a road bike and a mountain bike and have my sights set on this type of bike for casual rides and mild commuting. I just don't know much about the various components or how they compare against each other and would really appreciate some assistance. Thank you very much.

Hey there TLopez!

TO BIKE FORUMS!

We will try to answer all of your questions as best, we can!

- Slim

TLopez,

I my opinion, if your local bicyle dealership is offering you a "new" 2011 Marin Fairfax, for $500, then you should jump on that deal, as fast as possible! Of course, that's only if you get all of the amenities that a person would get, as a brand new bicycle owner. Therefore, the original warranty should remain in place, just as though the bicycle were purchased brand new. Make certain that the Fairfax, still has an Alivio rear derailleur and an Acera front derailleur, or better.

The Mill Valley would have cost you about $760 back in 2004. That was practically eight years ago! A 2005 Mill Valley today, should cost at the most, maybe $200-$300, and that's without a warranty. Therefore, I'd pass on the Mill Valley.

The Cannondale Quick 4 that sells for $629 at REI, is a more than fair deal. You'll automatically qualify for excellent warranties, both from REI and the bicycle manufacturer, as well. If something suddenly goes wrong with your bike fives years from now, you can still expect to return your Quick for either a replacement, or a full refund from REI.

- Slim

PS.

If you become an official REI member, you don't even need a receipt for returned items!

Mr. Slim,

Thank you very much for the quick response and sage advice. You've helped me tremendously and I really appreciate it.
Gotta ask...what part of NorCal are you out of?

Take care,

Tom

I could throw a stone at Bayfair and hit the Century theater's Marquee in San Leandro!

- Slim

Walking distance to Ricky's!! Born in Oakland...grew up in Hayward...living in Texas...the land of zero bike lanes.
Thanks again.

Well howdy, neighbor!

PS.

In them neck of the woods, without any bike lanes, you might as well start looking at Palominos, Morgans, and Mustangs!

All the bikes you mentioned are good. However, as slim said, avoid the bike that comes without warranty. Not nearly enough of a cost savings to justify the risk.

My tip to you: Make sure the bike you choose is the most comfortable for you... this is more important than components, frames, brands... you have to be comfortable riding whatever you buy. If you are very comfortable on one of your existing bikes and would like a similar fit on the new one, consider doing some measurements (mainly saddle-to-handlebar reach, saddle to handlebar drop) and see if one or the other bikes on your list is closer to these than the other.

Best of luck! And welcome to BF!

https://www.rei.com/product/825657/ma...29er-bike-2012 Was at REI last night when I seen this, and thought of your post.

https://www.bikeforums.net/archive/in.../t-414401.html

No Carbon Forks, but nice component mix.