Newbie and don't own a bike... also broke.

[shouldbeinbed]

https://www.cyclechat.net/threads/claud-butler-odyssey-bike.209433/

If still available would be a good start

I had a CB Legend of similar vintage, nice bike, comfy, easy riding, solidly built and assuming the gearing is similar then it'll help your knees without stressing them.

Edit: cross posted with above.

 

[biggs682]

https://www.cyclechat.net/threads/claud-butler-odyssey-bike.209433/

If still available would be a good start

I had a CB Legend of similar vintage, nice bike, comfy, easy riding, solidly built and assuming the gearing is similar then it'll help your knees without stressing them.

Edit: cross posted with above.

great minds think a like

 

[katom]

@biggs682

I have literally just messaged you via your FB page. I'm probably looking for a 17" (I think?!)

 

[uphillstruggler]

@katom

That claude butler would be perfect imo (not that it counts for much) but it already has the rack and mudguards cos youll be needing them.

even with the additional cost of the locks, lights etc, this would be well within budget.

best of luck with the search - and welcome to cc and GB

 

[katom]

Thanks!

I'd love to purchase the CB, but I'm too small for the frame.

 

[shouldbeinbed]

Bummer dude. Good luck with the continuing hunt

 

[katom]

Cheers!

 

[CanucksTraveller]

Shame, the Odyssey is nice, I had one in the 90s!

Not to worry, eBay is awash with good Carerras, Treks etc for not much more than a hundred quid. Go and get yourself some tinnies and do some browsing of the classifieds and the sale sites tonight for any in your area so you can go and collect. Come back with any questions you might have.

 

[katom]

Thanks a stack, you've all been a massive help!

 

[uphillstruggler]

Thanks!

I'd love to purchase the CB, but I'm too small for the frame.

how tall are you? I gave this to my sister who is about 5'6 or 5'7 and it fitted pretty well. she now has no need for it.

it still has the guards and rack if you are interested. drop me a pm

 

[katom]

I'm 5'5, so that may be a tad too big.

Thanks though

 

[snorri]

Quite a number of places come up on Google if you search for recycled bikes in London, including some sound advice from your friendly local police.
http://content.met.police.uk/Article/Used-bicycle-buyers-guide/1400011741646/1400011741646

 

[katom]

Brilliant, thank you

 

[Cycleops]

The only trouble with that is if you don't know what to look out for you can end up with a heap of rubbish which ends up costing you. The advantage of buying from someone like @biggs682 is that you know its OK and ready to go.

Try to find something that has been little used. People often buy a bike for exercise and just get fed up with it and put in the garage. If you can get one off those that would be great. You've identified the other pitfall, getting the correct size. When you've found a good deal its always a good idea to take it down to your LBS and have them check it over, if only from the safety point of view. Good luck.

 

[katom]

Thanks, I've just bought a bike off @biggs682 for my partner and am on the look out for myself now