Where to buy a new bike cheap for 1st timer

[reekraut]

I'm trying to find a 2008 WSD Trek 1.2 or something similarily priced for size 52. I've been calling to every bike shop in the greater boston area & can not find any for the life of me. Does anyone know of other places to search for these or other good beginner bikes for myself. I've never been a road cyclist, this is my first time trying this out, so I don't want to sink a ton of money in my first bike.

[Biciclista]

craig's list?

[tulip]

Is there a particular reason that you want the Trek? There are a variety of very great bikes out there. I'm partial to Jamis bikes. There are some great bike shops around Boston that I'm sure would have a whole mess of bikes to try out. Remember that fit is much more important than brand.

[Karma007]

I love my Trek 2.1, which I bought in November. I doubt you would find one for a discount, but it is worth every penny. Also, try out all sorts of bikes, not just the 52. I thought that size was perfect for me, and after trying several makes and models ended up with my Trek in a 50.

[sundial]

I can tell you where NOT to buy it--big box stores. You can snag a pretty good deal sometimes on Craigslist and eBay--even your LBS might know of someone who is willing to part from their bike for an upgrade.

[pinkychique]

Check out bikesdirect.com - they have nice bikes with nice components for cheap.

[TrekTheKaty]

To summarize what everyone said, go to a bike shop and tell them you are a first timer and your budget. They will help you find a bike and let you test ride a few. If the shop has a few locations, they can call around a find the right frame size. My understanding is bikes don't have much of a markup, so it's hard to find sales. When they do go on sale, it would be the end of the summer.

I also love my Trek, but my DH made me try others and it concreted my decision.