Getting back in and need some advice

[trizek]

Twenty-five years ago, I had a mountain bike and my husband and I rode off the beaten track. I really have not done much biking at all for the last 15 yrs and I am now looking to get back into it...slowly. I am looking at a hybrid (I will be riding in the city on bike paths for the most part) but I want to buy used before I invest a bunch of money. I have found one that I am interested in. Does anyone know much about this type of bike? What should I look for when I go see it? It is the correct size frame for me, that much I do know. Any help you can give me is much appreciated! (attaching photo of possible purchase) -- What is a good price to pay for a used bike?

[PamNY]

Is that a Trek? It looks similar to the Trek I bought when I first returned to cycling. Like you, I was on city bike paths a lot.

My bike was fine, though a little heavy. I upgraded to the Trek fx category recently.

Price varies depending on location. Look on Craigslist for a starting point. I'm in NYC so prices are high.

Are you buying from an individual or a shop? Where I live, a lot of bikes listed on Craigslist were stolen. I lucked out and bought one from a person who had receipts, owner's manual, etc.

I got some good advice about evaluating used bikes in this thread:

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=41950&highlight=evaluate+bike

Good luck and congratulations on returning to cycling!

[trizek]

Yes, it is a Trek but I am not sure what model.

[PamNY]

If it's the Trek Navigator, it's completely upright and I think little heavy. That's fine -- if it's what you want. The Navigator was a too heavy for me because I need to carry my bike up subway stairs. I bought a used bike from a rental place, so I could try different models.

If it's a good price, good condition,and meets your needs, it might be perfect for returning to cycling.

[trizek]

I think it is a WSD 7300 -- I won't have to carry it up or down stairs so that shouldn't be a problem. Thank you for the advice!

[withm]

A friend of mine has that bike. It IS heavy, with cheap components!

She was unable to ride it up even the smallest of "hills." Granted we have no hills here, but she was pretty out of breath just walking up a short bump in the road - partly due to her very inactive lifestyle, and probably partly due to inexperience with shifting.

For the same money you could probably find a used, but much better quality and lighter road bike with either drop or flat handlebars.

[trizek]

So, in your opinion, you think a road bike would be a better choice than a hybrid? I guess I was thinking I might be more comfortable riding in a more upright position. Is there anyone else out there with any opinions on this subject? I really don't want to buy something that I hate and then never ride it so I welcome everyone's opinion!!! Thank you!

[Bethany1]

There are so many great bikes out there. If your bike is similar to the Navigator, it's going to be on the heavy side. My DH has one and it's nice and upright, easy to ride. I don't think the components are that great but he's not out to beat up the bike either.

Have you had a chance to go to a LBS and check out what's available and what you might like? You'll have a great selection and helpful salespeople and can narrow down your bike needs. A lot times they have used bikes. Even if you don't purchase, you'll know what you want and hate when you start looking at used bikes.

[climbergirl]

Test ride, test ride, test ride! Someplace like REI or a good sporting goods store will have lots to choose from, and any decent LBS will have a variety of types of bikes you can take out for a spin.

Save trying the road bikes until you've test ridden a few hybrids and mountain bikes, though, if you're just getting into things. First time on an unfamiliar road bike with those mustache handlebars can be a bit intimidating!

[blainelee]

If it's a good price, good condition,and meets your needs, it might be perfect for returning to cycling.
Yes,it's up to you.

[MGM]

It does look like a heavier comfort bike, which is fine if that's what you want. Good for bike paths, especially gravel or dirt. You could still get the benefits of a hybrid if you go with something more like a road bike, like a Cannondale Quick 3, a Specialized Sirrus, or a Trek FX series.