Guidance

[Johnno260]

Hi I am currently on a Hybrid, but I am looking to take the plunge and get a drop bar bike in the future, just need to fill the new bike coffer a little more.

I am able to complete 20-25 mile rides now on my hybrid, but I am looking to go longer/faster so I don't want to replace my hybrid for a drop bar entry version as such I would like to take a small step up.

I am not just doing flat rides, and try and mix my routes with some flat sections with some decent climbs.

My current bike is a Boardman Hybrid comp nothing flash I know, I have been checking Ebay to see whats out there, I am basically just window shopping at the moment when I found this:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Mens-Spec...926964?hash=item3d25c8e174:g:SdkAAOSw4shX2rt0

I think it's an entry level bike still? the other bike I had been looking at is the Merida Ride 300 but this would be from new unless I find a close good deal on ebay etc

So one of my questions would be what would I be looking for gearing wise?

Also if I go for a bike online what are the pitfalls I need to watch for? I am leaning more towards my LBS and new as they have done a fantastic job helping me with my current bike, but it seemed insane to ignore the potential good deals from ebay etc.

 

[Ajax Bay]

https://www.cyclechat.net/forums/bike-discussions-and-buying-advice-what-bike.39/
Edit @Johnno260 : Getting the correct size is more important than the gears, which will be fine. The one you linked to has 3 x 8 and the range (top to bottom) will be more than you need.

 

[Johnno260]

https://www.cyclechat.net/forums/bike-discussions-and-buying-advice-what-bike.39/

Hi Ajax I will take a look there and ask admins to move this thread there as well, thankyou.

 

[Globalti]

That bike looks little used. Happily the owner had the sense to leave the size label on it; which makes it easier to sell. It would make an excellent entry-level bike as long as you don't get sucked into the auction and end up paying too much for it.

 

[Johnno260]

cheers for all the advise so far, I have added myself to all the LBS mailing lists for deals etc as well.

One has a specialized Allez E5 that looks ok, nice price as well, I will keep an eye on their website.