Newbie from Central Virginia
 

Hey BF'ers. Name is Rich. Early 40's. Avid runner with knees that not keeping up. Decided to start getting into tris. I know next to nothing about biking so I started looking on here for help. Quickly discovered that I paid too much for my first used bike. :o) Lesson learned. Decided it was time to join and get more help on the front end.

So far, loving cycling. Found some great rural roads near me and some riders that are at my pace. Building up the mileage at a good clip. Hoping to get a 1/2 century under my belt before 2011 ends.

Welcome to Bike Forums. What bike do you have?

Welcome to BF. Just a note - running is evil. ;)

Welcome aboard!

Welcome to the forum

I bought an older Trek 2200. It's a carbon tube/alum lug model
 

I've been on the lookout for a decent 56cm bike for the better part of 6 mos. but everything was $750 plus. I also had a price limit of $500. Mrs. tmshokie wanted to be sure it was not a "fad" so I had to prove my faithfulness on a reasonable bike.

After buying it (a little under $500) I've seen them go for $400. It's decent. 105 grupo, shimano wheels, carbon forks and seat post, cat eye and tri bars. Biggest issue is the age of the frame. Thought it was a 1999-2000 at purchase. Did not do my homework. Looks to be in good shape overall, for a 18 yr old frame.

I read all the noodly comments on here with these frames but I'm 5'11 and about 175. Apparently I don't have enough harumph! to get it to noodle yet. Rides very smooth for me, compared to the all alum Trek I was borrowing.

On a better buying note I got some Specialized carbon shoes, Look cleats, two LG helmets, 3 Performance Bike jerseys, 2 pair chamois riding shorts, mini pump and saddle bag ALL for $75 off CLL. All basically brand new. Maybe used 2-3 times. But I missed out on the Madone that the guy sold for $1200 that was $3000 new. Soooooo close.

Howdy and welcome to the forums!