Winter Bike ... entry level new or decent used!

[JonnyG]

After buying my first ever road bike, a Specialized Roubaix, in July, I have well and truly got the bug for road cycling. I can feel myself getting fitter, even though my max at the moment is a 20 mile ride, but I am already thinking about buying another bike so I can put the Roubaix to bed and keep going through the winter months.


I have just sold one of my mountain bikes and have £400 burning a hole in my pocket.


Question is do I go for a budget new bike or try and find a better level previously owned bike.


I see that some of the bike stores are already starting to clear their stocks of 2011 bikes and am looking at things like this or maybe even this.


I mustn't go too far above the £400 budget but at a push could probably find another £100. If I leave it another month or more do the SALE prices come down even more?


Most of the bikes in this price range seem to be fitted with a mix of Shimano 2300, Sora or Tiagra components. What are they like compared to the 105's on my Roubaix, which I love! (Too much according to my wife

)

The other option is to look for a decent used bike on ebay and maybe get more bang for my bucks......dare I say 'It is only a winter bike'!!!

Any advice!??

 

[Simba]

The Carrera range from Halfords are pretty decent for your budget.

 

[Globalti]

I'm in the same situation as you, got a Roubaix and fancy a winter bike.

There's no way I'm buying an aluminium bike as I have a strong prejudice against them so it's going to be a second hand steel bike of some sort. I bought a smashing steel Peugeot once in almost new condition for £150, it was cheap because it was unfashionable.

 

[JonnyG]

I'm in the same situation as you, got a Roubaix and fancy a winter bike.

There's no way I'm buying an aluminium bike as I have a strong prejudice against them so it's going to be a second hand steel bike of some sort. I bought a smashing steel Peugeot once in almost new condition for £150, it was cheap because it was unfashionable.

Fashionable doesn't bother me either. Just want to get something I'll enjoy riding.

The acid test for me will be when it's cold and raining will I be as excited about going out as I am now. If it's a nice bike it will make it a lot easier. It's more about the components for me. I have been spoilt by the smooth gearshifts on the Roubaix.

 

[Wankelschrauben]

Why not keep using the Roubaix?

 

[JonnyG]

Why not keep using the Roubaix?

Don't want to spoil it! Would rather not have to worry about taking it out if the weather is bad.....and I would!!

I see the Roubaix as a long term bike and would like to keep it in good nick

 

[Globalti]

Ditto! I keep mine gleaming and don't want to subject it to road salt.

 

[david1701]

Kona Jake? runs too dear I thought it was 550 ish, though you might find a sale one

who else makes fairly cheap CX bikes....

its that or some old skool steel on ebay?

 

[fossyant]

You might just get a Ribble Winter bike for that.

They are very common come winter time, especially on club runs - you can't go anywhere in Cheshire without seeing a few !

 

[Glover Fan]

Well your first consideration for a winter bike should be mudguards.

That first Trek doesn't look like it has any sort of provision for properly mounted mudguards.

Mudguards in any inclement weather is the difference between an enjoyable ride and a nightmare ride IMO.

 

[JonnyG]

Thanks for all the advice so far guys.


Have just spotted this on eBay and it's just along the road from me.

Anyone know this bike and if it's any good?

 

[JohnTCC]

hi... have you looked at ribble cycles winter training bike.... looks good value



JohnTCC

 

[smokeysmoo]

If I leave it another month or more do the SALE prices come down even more?

Eventually yes, and generally when they only have odd sizes left.

 

[JonnyG]

Eventually yes, and generally when they only have odd sizes left.

Good point