Hi There

[aggal06]

Hi, I'm new here. I am hopefully moving to Austin within the next few weeks, at least by June, and I want to get into cycling (I am currently still in College Station). Right now all I have is a mountain bike that I ride to work and back which takes me about 25 min. to get there and 25 to come home. It's just starting to feel really heavy I guess is the word because it's like 30 lbs. Though it's still fun to ride it! Anyway, I'm kind of interested in perhaps getting a road bike, however I'm not sure that I can afford a brand new one. My question is, what should I look for in a used bike to make sure that I'm getting something that is decent? I've never owned or used a road bike before. I also feel like I'm going to have a hard time finding one used because I'm fairly tall (5'10). My mountain bike is a 20inch, I'm assuming I'll need a 54 cm or so road bike? Thanks!

[imdeanna]

Hello

I would recommend going in to your LBS and test riding a few different brands/sizes..... I have a Trek WSD 54cm (I'm 5'6) but that was the only brand where 54 felt right...on the speciallized, I was more comfortable on a 52....maybe due to the WSD? not sure...but the components can make a difference on the feel/fit.

I test rode bikes...found the one I wanted...searched on-line and found it for a few hundred less....(cuz it was last years model) but it was still brand new...so worked for me!

This is my first Road bike..and let me tell you...WHOLE different world than the MTN bikes when your street riding!!

[tulip]

Imdeanna is right to advise you to test ride bikes to see which ones fit you and are comfortable. Many Local Bike Shops (LBS) have used bikes, too. While alot of people test ride bikes at bike shops and then buy the bike online, it's not really a good habit to get into. The LBS depends on sales to stay in business. If you find a good LBS, treat them well, and they will treat you well in return (with extra services and discounts and rush repairs, etc.)

Shop around and see what the LBS in your area have for sale. Don't disregard new bikes, too, because last year's models are often on sale.

[imdeanna]

While alot of people test ride bikes at bike shops and then buy the bike online, it's not really a good habit to get into. The LBS depends on sales to stay in business. If you find a good LBS, treat them well, and they will treat you well in return (with extra services and discounts and rush repairs, etc.)

This is very true!! I went to 4 different bike shops....and there was one that really stood out for customer service...willingness to help/suggest etc etc....and I really did want to buy my bike from them...but they didn't have the one I wanted...he was still very helpful EVEN tho the bike didn't come from his shop...BUT...everything else I've bought has came from his shop!! and I will always go there first from now on

and like tulip said...most will give you a great discount on other merchandise from their store when you buy the bike from them!