Jameshow
Veteran
So are both bike similar?
No the spez is alot more relaxed geometry whilst the malt is more stretched out racer geometry.
The spez would suit a new rider, but I would find it too upright...
So are both bike similar?
Is there anything I need to be aware before I buy a second hand bike except the size, what do I need to check
The Specialised has lower gearing, so if you have much in the way of hills, is likely to be better for you.
It has 46/34 chainset and 11-34 cassette, while the Merlin has 50/34 and 11-28
Everything state of the tyres, that the brakes work, the gears change smoothly throughout the range at the back and can shift between the chainrings at the front and that there’s no slipping when you change gear and pedal, that the handlebars turn smoothly, that the seat post/saddle can be moved up and down smoothly, pedals turn smoothly, that there are no cracks or damage, especially to the forks if carbon…
Also ask the seller to show you a receipt for the bike and any work that’s been done by them or a shop, ask when the chain, cassette, tyres were last changed. You’ll want proof that it’s theirs to sell and not stolen!
Is frame number ok? As I asked him he said he doesn’t have receipt for it
Only if it’s been registered on a site like Bike Register.
Is he the first owner? If so, he should be able to get a copy of the receipt from the shop/his online account
Only if it’s been registered on a site like Bike Register.
Is he the first owner? If so, he should be able to get a copy of the receipt from the shop/his online account
So if he really doesn’t have receipt so I should not buy his bike?
Go see it and see what you think of him and the bike. If he said he’ll only need you in a pub carpark or similar I’d be wary. Can you take someone with you?
On Saturday my parents are not free so I only can go by myself