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Hi there,
I am looking to buy a road, I have been to the local bike shop and am looking on e bay. I would like to do a road bike race in March 09 100kms and ride in team muiti sport events. I love to MNT bike as well so it would be good training in the shoulder seasons. I live in Jackson Hole and New Zealand. I am finding it all a bit overwhelming. Carbon verses steel ect.... Is it better to buy a used carbon bike or a brand new entry level road bike.
Thanks for reading my post
Libby
Boy, this is a tough one (used carbon or new entry level). I think if you find a great used carbon bike, and it's in your budget, AND IT FITS YOU, then you should get it. There's a chance it will be exactly what you want. If you get an entry level new bike, you're going to have issues with the components if you get more into racing, and either want to replace them or the whole bike really soon.
If it's for racing and tris, I think you'd want carbon.
I would stay away from ebay. You can get real lemons or at least bikes that require some mechanical know-how to get up and running correctly. The problem is that you have no idea how smoothly that bike is setup from the pictures.
Stick with a local bike shop that can help you find a properly sized bike (they should do a fitting for you for free). Buy something that fits both you and your budget now and worry about carbon fiber and upgrades later on. The key right now is to get some knowledgeable people to help you through the process (in person).
I researched on-line and went into a few different bike shops....test rode a few different brands/sizes .... when I decided on the one I wanted...I went onto EBAY....found the bike for $600 less than in the stores....
I wouldn't say stay away from Ebay....just be very cautious if it's a 'used' bike....& check their feedback.
Mine was "new" so I didnt' have any lemon issues....and since I test rode the exact brand & size I knew it would fit me. So it was a GREAT deal for me.... (I used the extra $ I saved and bought some cycling clothing...a new saddle) woohoo!! :)
Good luck and Welcome to TE :)