tburn90

I want to get into cycling and maybe do a mini triathlon in the future. I wanted to know should I get a new bike or a used one? Also I was wondering some good bikes new or used that would be in the $600-$800 price range maybe up to $1000 if it is really worth it. I also would want a speedometer and any other accessories that people would recommend.

M_FactorX19

Find a good used bike that fits you if that's not possible then get a new bike that fits you. That's the most important thing period. I would also save enough money to get a good pair of cycling short, a pair of cycling shoes, as well as a set of pedals. Gloves and a jersey would also be on my list of things to get started, also a decent floor pump. So u can see spending your total budget on a bike with better components that as a beginner you won't be able to tell a huge difference in is a waste. You should be able to get a good deal right now on 2010 models since bike shops are trying to make room for new 2011 bikes. Use this to your advantage. The other benefit from buying new from your local bike shop would be a warranty with the bike, normally tune ups for a year, as well as having them fit you to a bike. Remember that's the #1 thing. Hope that helps and good luck!

StephenH

The biggest problem with buying used is that if you don't know anything about bikes, you don't know if you're getting ripped off or whether the bike fits you or what until it's too late. So I figure to buy new if it's something I'm not too knowedgeable in.

What you need: Bike. Floor pump with gauge appropriate for your tires. Helmet. Water bottles and holders. Flat-fixing kit and knowlege to use it. Biking clothes. Some way to carry your bike in or on your vehicle. Clipless pedals and shoes.

If you're on a budget, there are some pretty cheap speedometers that work just fine, so that's not a big item. The 24-oz squeeze-type Gatorade bottles work great in bottle holders. For coolish weather like now, and rides of moderate length, 1-bottle is enough. Specialized biking clothes are pretty variable; I've done a lot of riding in blue jeans and cotton shorts and tee-shirts. If you have saddle problems or want to be your fastest, you're going to be wanting to things differently at some point. Helmets don't have to be expensive to be functional. Clipless pedals and shoes are optional, but you'd probably want them at some point.

One thing that has really helped me stay on the bike through the winter was a good headlight.

It's not uncommon for people to have to upgrade their saddles at some point, including possibly as soon as you buy the bike.

ptle

I'd only buy used if you do a lot of research. This is because, when buying used, you want to get a good deal, you want a bike that fits, and you want a bike that works.

You could also buy new. Check out some local bike shops (LBS) and see what they've got in your price range. Do a few tests rides to see what you like. Also, decide if you want a road bike or time trial bike. I recommend a road bike since you're just doing sprint triathlons. They're more versatile than time trial bikes.

Really the best new bike for that price range is one that fits you the best and one that you like the most. Most of the components on bikes in that price range will be similar, but I'd strive for a Sora/Tiagra mix. You may be able to find an older model with 105, giving you ten speeds, which doesn't necessarily make you faster, but it's a bit easier if you decide to upgrade. Plus, it's the thing to have.

Some accessories you may want to save for...
clipless pedals AND shoes
bike computer
water bottle cages
stuff to fix flats on the go (tire levers, CO2 or pump, extra tube)