I bought my first 2 hybrid bikes new, but my road bike (Specialized Ruby Compact) and Bike Friday used (on craigslist). Both were more expensive bikes than I would have purchased new. The trick was to find used ones that were barely used. The road bike had 100 miles on a trainer. Husband had bought it for his wife as a first bike and she never took to riding. The BF also had 100 miles. An older woman had bought it for a trip to Europe and did not go. It was pretty Rip Van Winkle. So, the clue in buying used is the wording in the ad as to why it is for sale. Another possible semi-new reason is that they bought a bike and decided they really should have bought a better one and are selling the first. If you know your size and what brands or models you like, you just keep looking every day for months until something comes up. There is no rush. Close outs at the LBS can also be good deal. Just don't buy a used bike with a lot of miles on it. If you do buy used, get it tuned up and possibly get a fit.