Originally Posted by
bubbaman
Thanks for your reply!
Sadly, I live in central WI and there's not much activity on CL around here, at least not close enough to drive during this virus craziness. But I have time. My Stumper can be my ride for awhile while I keep my eyes open.
While things are shut down is a perfect time(as any) to take a drive and pick something up, if you find the right bike/deal. I live in SE WI and drove to Rochester for like-new Lemond Maillot Jaune..long day, but well worth it in the long run. A (long) drive to pick something up only lasts a day, while owning/riding/enjoying the bike can last....many years.
If you create and monitor a regional search (via searchtempest) from your area..say 300 miles..you'll note that the largest volume of decent bikes seem to come out of the Minneapolis-Plymouth area. You'll see some reasonable activity in Madison and then Milwaukee & Chicago.
All that being said, Maelochs' post is spot-on. Use the next 3-6 months to learn the market and more about what you're looking for..and watch a regional search..and see where you end up. Without too much trouble, you can find premium-component road bikes that originally sold for (in today's dollars) $2000-$4000 going for $600-$1000.
Know your frame size so when a deal pops up you can move fast. If you see a nice bike at a decent deal on CL(or wherever) don't ponder on it for long(like a day or two) or it'll be gone. If you need any help in the Milwaukee area..send me a PM.
edit:..P.S. What is your road-bike frame size? I'm guessing 54cm-ish??