Second-hand racing bike: which one would you pick (if any)?

[ockidocki]

Hello! I just moved to Copenhagen and I'm looking for a basic, second-hand racing bike for my daily commuting (~22km). I want something reliable, but I don't need anything premium. I'm not well-informed about bikes and bike gear, hence the posting here

I am 1.72m tall, so I guess I need a bike with a frame size of about 54cm.

I started looking around and found the following options. I was wondering if someone could give me some feedback on these options?

https://www.secondhandbikes.dk/Product?id=1357

http://www.dba.dk/herreracer-andet-maerke-visp/id-1031133469/

http://www.dba.dk/herreracer-bianchi-54-cm/id-1030964264/

http://www.dba.dk/herreracer-raleigh-pursuit/id-1031118038/

My initial budget is in the 200-350 € range (~1500-2500 kr). However, I'd be fine spending a bit more if that means getting a substantially better bike.

Initially I considered second-hand bikes as I thought the may bring best value for money. But I'd be happy to buy a new one if that makes sense.

Thank you very much for your help!

 

[Cycleops]

Its very difficult to try and appraise these from a distance. Just remember they may be up to twenty years old so could be in any sort of mechanical condition. Unless you know what to look for it could end up costing you a lot of money. I'll run through a list you can check.

Headset: Hold the front brake on and pull the bars back and forth. Any play should be minimal. Hold the bike up and turn the the bars from lock to lock, movement should free and smooth.

Wheels: Spokes should be tight and wheel should run true. Try to feel for any play in the hub bearings by moving the rim from side to side and check they run smooth.

Frame: Check for any damage and wheel alignment.

Cranks: Wiggle them to feel any play, should be minimal.

Chainwheel and rear cassette: Look for hooked and sharp teeth which indicates replacement.

Gears: Check gear selection and chain jumping, may be linked to above.

None of these possible faults on its own is enough to make it a 'no go' but added up can cost. Use them as a bargaining chip to go towards any repairs.

For my money the Bianchi looks like the best bet. It has the brakes and shifters combined and seems more recent but that's just me. Needs checking over too.

There are a couple of members on here from Denmark so you may get advice from them.

Good luck.

 

[biggs682]

@ockidocki looking at all of the ones linked quickly i would agree with @Cycleops and say the Bianchi

But its hard to get much detail from links , if unsure dont buy as you will always more than likely still be unsure

Ask to try first as quite often that first 100 yards or metres can say a lot

 

[cyberknight]

@ockidocki looking at all of the ones linked quickly i would agree with @Cycleops and say the Bianchi

But its hard to get much detail from links , if unsure dont buy as you will always more than likely still be unsure

Ask to try first as quite often that first 100 yards or metres can say a lot

Just a quick question though looks like it has campag shifters with a sora mech , will it shift ok ?

 

[cyberknight]

Would it also be a good idea to look for a bike with rack and mudgaurd mounts , i know you can get clip on gaurds and seat post mounted racks unless you plan to travel light with a backpack .
I used to use a backpack but found it a lot more comfortable with dedicated panniers.

 

[biggs682]

Just a quick question though looks like it has campag shifters with a sora mech , will it shift ok ?

if set up , cant see why not

 

[cyberknight]

if set up , cant see why not

I know you can mix shimano and campag , if its set up right but its something to check works before buying .

 

[biggs682]

I know you can mix shimano and campag , if its set up right but its something to check works before buying .

hence my comment re trying it

@ockidocki l

Ask to try first as quite often that first 100 yards or metres can say a lot

 

[cyberknight]

hence my comment re trying it