Buying a new bike

[Bryn]

I'm not exactly new to cycling but the beginners section seems most appropriate...

I previously owned a Ridgeback 501 GS hybrid bike frame size 21 which I bought off a mate a year after he bought it in '94. In June 2012 the bike was pinched from outside my house and I am now looking for a new bike.

I've been told that the new Ridgeback Comet is a modern day equivalent so I've had look online. The Dawes 201 and Halfords Crossfire are both similarly priced.

I must admit I took the Ridgeback completely for granted and am now missing it. It was a great bike. I now need something similar - for road baking and trails. Any advice and suggestions would be greatly received.

Thanks!

 

[biggs682]

cant comment on any of the bikes listed as never experienced them , but sounds likes its going to be a hard decision so best of luck and let us know what you decide on

 

[vickster]

Not familiar with your old hybrid, but assume it didn't have suspension forks? The Halfords bike you mention does have suspension which I assume you don't want need. You don't mention a budget - perhaps look at the offerings from Edinburgh Bike. Are you wanting to avoid the American bicycle giants? If not, look at the Specialized Sirrus, Trek 7.x series and Giant Escape. All quite sporty, but should happily take rack and mudguards

 

[inkd]

+1 on the Specialized Sirrus, I have the new base model and im more than happy with it.

 

[Bryn]

Budget is about £300. The old bike didn't have suspension forks and I don't plan on getting a bike with one this time either. My main priority is decent speed for road and track, durable and easy maintenance.

Today I checked out both a Ridgeback and Trek, both quite similar, both manufactured in Taiwan..

Before being stolen, my old Ridgeback managed 18 years with little servicing, a 2 week cycling holiday in France and plenty of weekly track/road cycling. Something that can do the same will be most welcome :-)

 

[Kins]

I recently bought a second hand Trek 4300 and love it. Build quality etc seems decent for original price and after reading a few other forums seems they are pretty bullet proof for average use. Does road and light trials easy enough but it does have suspension forks.

 

[Kies]

If not, look at the Specialized Sirrus, Trek 7.x series and Giant Escape. All quite sporty, but should happily take rack and mudguards

This ^^^

 

[Bryn]

Yeah I had a look at Trek, thanks. Someone today suggested that Marin are a good make. E.g. Marin Fairfax.

 

[AndyRM]

The Cannondale Quick and Scott Sportster ranges are also good bets on the hybrid front.