Any thoughts on this bike?

Hi everyone, I am new here and to cycling. I do commute 3 miles a day to work. It is my hope to ride in a group soon and do fun races. In wanting to up my cycling I also want to get a new bike. I'm wondering if anyone has an opinion on this bike http://phoenix.craigslist.org/evl/bik/3160750076.html
I get to see it on Saturday morning (9/15/12). Does anyone have any advice on what to test out and what I should look for on this bike?:confused:
Sorry, like I said I am new and any advice would be helpful.

Personally, I wouldn't commute on this bike. It is not a commuting bike, would not be the best for carrying any type of load,
Maybe if you bought new wheels for it and either sold the racing wheels or saved them for when you did decide to race.

Go see how it handles on rough surface and in the wind.

I think for the money you can do better. The frame looks pretty old and the wheels are suited more to tris and riding alone than group riding. (it wouldn't be an issue with charity/fun rides - but they aren't even allowable (don't have enough spokes) for real USAC road racing)

Thank you both so much for your input, especially since I don't have any clue on cycle stuff *yet*. :)
Can you suggest a bike that may be better suited for a similar price?
Thanks again so much for taking the time to help me out. It is greatly appreciated. :)

Here's one that looks better - http://phoenix.craigslist.org/evl/bik/3256024620.html

When you are getting a used bike size is going to be your biggest issue. Finding a used bike in just the right size can be hard - don't believe stuff like what the guy posted in his ad.... a 52cm bike probably is not going to fit such a big range of people (he claims 5'3" to 5"11!)... it's also a little worrisome that he doesn't actually know the size..., but the other ad was a bit worrisome too.

Of course with end of the year sales and such (and you seem to need a good common size) you can probably get into most brand's entry level bikes for about that amount of money or perhaps just a hair more. Check out your local bike shops to see what they've got going for end of summer sales - look for models like the Specialized Dolce, the Giant Avail 5 or the Jamis Satellite Sport. With a new bike, even if it does cost a bit more up front, you may save in the end because you don't have to pay for tune ups or a fitting.

Thank you. I am so thankful for your time and knowledge. I have a LB that I enjoy looking at on-line. I think I should just take the plunge and go in there and look around (I haven't yet because I know I'll take one home :)). They have nice bikes for very similar prices and even better because they are new and like you said most likely a whole lot better of a buy. :) They mostly sell Specialized and have some beautiful bikes.

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Originally Posted by Eden

Here's one that looks better - http://phoenix.craigslist.org/evl/bik/3256024620.html

When you are getting a used bike size is going to be your biggest issue. Finding a used bike in just the right size can be hard - don't believe stuff like what the guy posted in his ad.... a 52cm bike probably is not going to fit such a big range of people (he claims 5'3" to 5"11!)... it's also a little worrisome that he doesn't actually know the size..., but the other ad was a bit worrisome too.

Of course with end of the year sales and such (and you seem to need a good common size) you can probably get into most brand's entry level bikes for about that amount of money or perhaps just a hair more. Check out your local bike shops to see what they've got going for end of summer sales - look for models like the Specialized Dolce, the Giant Avail 5 or the Jamis Satellite Sport. With a new bike, even if it does cost a bit more up front, you may save in the end because you don't have to pay for tune ups or a fitting.

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Eesh, that ad is sketchy. Especially considering that there's a sticker ON THE SEAT TUBE (or it looks like there is).

Eden's suggestions for bikes are good. Also consider the Fuji Finest/Newest 3.0 (depending on whether you need a women-specific bike or not).

I am 5.4". When I went to my LBS they said I would be able to do a 49-51cm bike. I am not sure if I should get a women's or men's bike but I think I would be open to both. I do like Fuji but need to find a LBS which sells them. I have found 2 LBS close by one is Specialize and the other Giant.