Looking for my First Road Bike

[Will Crookes]

Hi,
I'm looking to get myself my first (well second, I had a vintage raleigh pursuit) road bike. I have a budget of about £300 give or take and am about 172cm (5ft 7.5inches). I also quite like the idea of STI gears and for it to be as light as possible. I have had a look at a Triban 3 but can not find any for my size, new or used.
Do you have any other surgestions?
Thanks
Will
(edit I live in Norfolk. I am also happy to buy used)

 

[vickster]

Keep hunting for used, this time of year there should be more choice (or at least lower prices)

 

[Koga]

It depends what entry level bike you want as they come and various price categories. Nonetheless I think second hand bikes are very expensive. Unless you have seen the bike you could easily end up with a worn cassette (£25 for a cheap good one), worn chain (£15 for cheap good one) and old rear tyre (£20 for a cheap good one).
I would save up and buy a new bike, but go for a last years model.

 

[sreten]

Hi,

Halfords do a Carrera Zelos with sti for £300.
Sports direct an Everlast similar for £300.
Both claim to be discounted from £600.

I don't think STI comes at a cheaper price.
Edit : SD do one for £250, a Muddy Fox.

rgds, sreten.

 

[biggs682]

keep an eye out for a decent used bike is always my advice loads out there just need to find the one

 

[bikingdad90]

Hi,

I'm the same size to you and went for the 57cm Triban 3 as I couldn't get hold of a 54cm and money was burning a hole in my pocket. I prefer the longer reach as I felt too cramped on a 54cm Carrera Virtuso (which I sold on). I simply moved the saddle forward slightly and I am happy with it, others have switched the 110cm stem to 100cm.

Have you considered Dawes Giro 200 or 300, Edinburgh Cycles Sabré? At £300 new you will struggle to find STI levers as butterfly changers are cheaper to stick on. If you can stretch to £350-370 then the STI levers will definately be on most models. Halfords range of carrera zelos are reasonable specced and although a little on the heavy side are good value for money especially with the sale on at the moment. If you hold out you maybe able to pick up the TDF range with 50% off.

Another point to consider is that you shouldn't restrict yourself to 54cm frames. Definately see how you feel on the bigger frames of all the models you are consdering and you maybe suprised to find the 54cm is too cramped and doesn't feel as sporty as going for the bigger frame.

 

[T.M.H.N.E.T]

What are you all on about? 2300STI is common on bikes in that price range

 

[Kevin Alexander]

Why not pay £300 and take out some interest free finance out. Lots of shops to that.

 

[vickster]

Or interest free credit card