Second bike advice

[IzzyWizz]

I'm trying to decide on which bike to buy as a second bike. I'm a keen cyclist, usually doing 50-100 miles a week. I'll be using it for commuting, weekend rides, and just about everything! Here's the lineup:

- Ladies Giant Avail 1
- Trek Alpha 1.5 (Women's)
- Women's Specialized Dolce
- Bianchi Via Nirone 7 C2C

I've found all of these for sale secondhand within budget (£500), although I would go up to £800 if the jump was really worth it. This is what's led me to look at second hand aluminium bikes (is this along the right lines?). I've also considered a steel single-speed (whole other can of worms...) Previously I've been riding a vintage steel bike, which was too big for me. It doesn't have to be a women's specific bike, but I thought I'd get a better fit that way.

Thanks in advance!

Izzy

 

[vickster]

Go try them out, see which one makes you smile most

With your budget, second hand Alu will be a good choice, go for Tiagra, 105 or SRAM. Check you are comfortable braking and changing gear. Consider crosslever brakes if you find getting enough power to stop difficult

 

[Milkfloat]

What is your current bike and what do you think is lacking?

 

[vickster]

What is your current bike and what do you think is lacking?

Says a vintage steelie which is too big?

 

[Milkfloat]

Says a vintage steelie which is too big?

Marks out of 10 for my comprehension skills - 0

 

[Soltydog]

If they are all under £500 & your budget is upto £800, I reckon you should be able to get a good deal & buy 2 of them

What Vickster says, buy the one that makes you smile most

 

[rivers]

With regards the dolce, which model is (dolce, dolce sport, evo, comp evo, etc), as if it is £500 and is just the bog standard dolce, walk away as that is way overpriced. I bought one new last year in the sales for £480. Saying that, it is a lovely bike.

 

[Cycleops]

If you're looking second hand its not going to make you smile of it needs a lot of work done on it. Unless you feel assured it is little used get it checked over thoroughly before parting with your cash.
Good luck.

 

[jefmcg]

I've found all of these for sale secondhand within budget (£500),

That seems quite high for second hand alu. You could get at 2015 Avail 1 (large only) new for £500, for example.

 

[vickster]

That seems quite high for second hand alu. You could get at 2015 Avail 1 (large only) new for £500, for example.

Bargain if you are tall (5'11 minimum)...I had a medium (am a smidge under 5'10 probably)
https://www.liv-cycling.com/gb/avail-1-2015 Geometry available