Recommendations, please

[Tillybug]

I got a really good deal on my used Giant last summer. I did know what size I needed and then started looking around. The used market was tricky up here as most of the bikes were too large.

When this one came up, I scooped it up right away. I then brought it for a bike fitting.

My bike needed some serious tweaking that ended up costing me the same amount as the bike but I'm still ahead from buying a new bike, and my bike is better than what I would have got new.

My advice is to keep in mind if you buy used, you may need to replace a few parts to make it perfect so budget for that as well.

Also, the bike fitting is crucial. I had no idea how off I was and the fitting/new components made a night and day difference.

[azfiddle]

Speaking as another short person, it may be hard to find a good road bike used. I watched Craigslist in my area for a year, and saw only 3 or 4 bikes in my size during the year, and some were too expensive for me.

Good luck- try the bikes before you buy and make sure it will really fit you!