Looking for input on a GT ZR5000
 

Hello -

I am interested in puchasing a road bike to ride in Boston and New York City, and some riding in suburban areas as well. I did some searching, but there wasn't too much info on this specific model. I'm on a small budget, so only an entry-level bike for now. There's a used GT ZR5000 in my size that I might take a look at. The price is affordable and the bike looks nice. The description reads:

"black, very light, all aluminum, 54cm frame for riders 5'7"-5'11" or so, excellent condition, used very little, shimano components, ritchie clipless. tires take up to 130lbs of air."

I have some questions and would appreciate your advice:

1. Is this bike suitable for city riding? Can I add more durable tires, perhaps with treads, to help ride on rough, perhaps cracked pavement?

2. What is the quality of a GT bike, and specifically, a GT ZR5000?

Thanks in advance for your help!

54 cm frame for a 5'11 guy? I'd test ride it first to see if it might be too small.

Really? I use 54CM as my benchmark because last summer I was fitted for a bike at a local shop and the associate said that 54CM fit me properly. But I would certainly be testing the bike first.

I'm 5ft 9.5 and I ride a 55 (LOOK) with a 120 stem and Helluva saddle-bar drop.

I would have to try the bike to ensure that it fits. But how is the quality of this bike?

Everybody I have come across likes them. I guess they are built like tanks.

Well, that's certainly good. I popped by the local bike shop and confirmed that I should at least look at a 54CM.

Any other opinions on this model?

I have the ZR 4.0 I think that it is one year either older or newer than the 4000/5000. I'm pretty sure these are from before GT sold out to Pacific. Many say that they made better frames back then, but I am no expert. I can tell you that my frame is stiff and fairly light, but kind of a harsh ride. That said I love the look of the "triple triangle" and the bike in gereral. I'm 5' 10" and it is a 54cm. I don't think that I could ride a bigger size in this frame as I can just stand over it and I'm running a 90cm stem. Some other brands 56cm feel smaller than my 54cm GT.