wanted: Bike Friday

[Tri Girl]

Ok, so I know it seems like I'm stealing some thunder from Beane, but she just happened to post at the same time I was going to ask.

I'm selling three bikes of mine to make room for a new one. I want a folder- specifically a Bike Friday (it was between a BF and a Dahon). I've done research for months, have been scouring the craigslists ads, asked my local bike club, and am a member of the Yak list- but no luck. There isn't any place within 300 miles that I can test ride a folder, so I'm going to do the "foolish" thing and buy one without having ridden one. I know they handle a bit differently, but I'm certain it's something I can get used to quickly, and that it won't bother me.

I'm 5'3" with a fairly short inseam and reach. I rode an XS Giant road bike, and my current bike is a 48cm TT bike. I think I could probably get by with a 47-50 BF. I have considered buying new, but thought I would see if there's anything out there first. I'm thinking along the lines of a NWT. I know that I want a triple up front that I can use for all my regular rides/long rides and light touring, but any model that will take a rear rack will work for me.
I'm hesitant to get a custom made bike, because my bike tastes seem to change fairly often, and I'm afraid if I get one custom made, it will be hard to re-sell since I'm short. I may just do one of the 2009 stock models on the BF site.


If you have anything, or know of any for sale- please let me know. My other 3 bikes are up for sale, and I hope to sell them soon to get some funds for a BF.

Thanks, ladies.

[tulip]

Sounds like a good plan, Tri! As you know, I love my Bike Friday. I got dropped bars because mine is set up like my road bike. I rode one Bike Friday with straight bars years ago, long before I decided to buy one. I did not try another one until mine arrived by Fed Ex. Mine's made based on the measurements of my road bike, so I didn't have to guess at the size.

There are quite a few other TEers who have Bike Fridays, and I'm sure they'll chime in with their stories and suggestions.

[Biciclista]

you're too short for mine.

[Tri Girl]

you're too short for mine.

If only I could grow a few inches, I could fit your bike AND I wouldn't need to lose weight. It would be a win/win.

Tulip- thanks for the post. Good to know you bought your BF without test riding it first. Makes me feel somewhat less crazy. I think I'm going to be very happy with a folder. I don't travel a lot (maybe once a year), but I just like the idea of it. They are unique and different- and that's how I like to roll...

[Blueberry]

Have you called Bike Friday? They're pretty supportive even of their used bikes, and are usually great about helping to hook you up with local folks who ride them. Seriously - they'll give you names and numbers of people who will let you test ride.

Also, they have pre-loved bikes on their website (I think I mentioned that in the other thread too). They sell for less than new, they do sometimes have smaller ones, and they come with a money back guarantee, IIRC.

CA

[Aggie_Ama]

Oh TG look at Susan's because I want it so bad! LOL. Of course DH told me I could have a folder possibly with his bonus this year then realized he is lucky to have a job and likely no bonus. So shorty snap that up because I am a midget and want it myself. You didn't even need to drag bikes to Texas, just could have called me I ride 47 cm.