...or an older bike for less? I am currently trying to get into road biking (no competition, just exercise and fun) and I have found two or three bikes I wouldn't mind starting on.
I found a Trek 1.1 brand new for $650.00 but as a grad student, the price is a little steep even for the cheapest bike I could find new. I even considered getting a $250.00 Schwinn from Walmart, but I know how terrible they can be. Today I also found a 2000 used GT ZR 4000 at a local bike shop. The people there were VERY cool and very helpful (unlike some bike shops where they are overly snooty). He said it was $450.00 but that he would knock off $42.00 if I bought it today or tomorrow. It has new Shimano shifters and wheels, but everything else was stock. I rode it, but I am clueless on what to look for in road bike.
I have been riding mountain bikes for about 3 years and during the warmer months I ride everyday that it is dry enough for (currently own a Gary Fisher Marlin Disc). I live right next to a well known park with many hills that is very popular for road bikers. So my question is, should I go with the GT ZR 4000 for the cheaper price even though it is 10 years old, or the Trek 1.1 for around $250.00 more? Or if you know of any other cheap bikes (around $400) I should look in to?
Remember I am new to the road bike scene and may end up hating it. However I really doubt I will sense I am obsessed with mountain biking and biking in general. Thanks!
I found a Trek 1.1 brand new for $650.00 but as a grad student, the price is a little steep even for the cheapest bike I could find new. I even considered getting a $250.00 Schwinn from Walmart, but I know how terrible they can be. Today I also found a 2000 used GT ZR 4000 at a local bike shop. The people there were VERY cool and very helpful (unlike some bike shops where they are overly snooty). He said it was $450.00 but that he would knock off $42.00 if I bought it today or tomorrow. It has new Shimano shifters and wheels, but everything else was stock. I rode it, but I am clueless on what to look for in road bike.
I have been riding mountain bikes for about 3 years and during the warmer months I ride everyday that it is dry enough for (currently own a Gary Fisher Marlin Disc). I live right next to a well known park with many hills that is very popular for road bikers. So my question is, should I go with the GT ZR 4000 for the cheaper price even though it is 10 years old, or the Trek 1.1 for around $250.00 more? Or if you know of any other cheap bikes (around $400) I should look in to?
Remember I am new to the road bike scene and may end up hating it. However I really doubt I will sense I am obsessed with mountain biking and biking in general. Thanks!