New to cycling and signed up for a 70.3 in the spring. Having a tough time deciding which way to go choosing a bike and trying not to spend a loads of cash. I’m a bit hesitant buying off a marketplace even going to check the bike out because I could miss something. I’m hoping to find something in the $500-$1,000 that’s in good shape. I will go a little over budget to get the right bike I can use until I either decide I don’t like biking or want to sell and upgrade.
I rode the domane AL2 Gen 4 in the trek shop and liked it. All in it’s about $1350, so stretching the budget a bit. I also like that new comes with warranty.
I found two used Modane 5.2s (not sure on the year) with Shimano Ultegra 10s, a 56cm for $800 and a 58cm for $1000 all in. The 58cm felt a little more comfortable in the shop on the Domane. The $800 says less than 200 miles over the life of the bike, but it looks like an older model than the one for $1000. Not sure if those a good deal or if I should try and bargain. Knowing myself I’ll definitely try and bargain regardless. BBB says it’s worth about $600-$700 but I know that’s not completely reliable. Seller claims excellent condition and the pictures do look like it’s been well taken care of, but I’m wary of a 10-year old carbon bike from what I’ve read online.
I’ve been keeping an eye out for a month or so now and not had much luck finding things that drew my eye in my size until these two.
I’d appreciate any recommendations on decision between used vs new as well as whether you think those prices are reasonable.
by Bearded_Basturd