Questions about a used mtb purchase from a totally new rider! NEED HELP PLEASE!
03-28-14, 01:52 AM
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Questions about a used mtb purchase from a totally new rider! NEED HELP PLEASE!
I am totally new to mountain biking, and I am in college, so I do not have a lot of money to spend right now. I have found a Trek 3700 and a Specialized Hardrock sport. Both are used and look in pretty good condition. (Craigslist finds) They are each $200. I am 5-9. Which is the best size frame for me? Out of the two bikes, with them being used and older....if you could only afford these two bikes, which one would you purchase and why?
Thank you so much for any and all help that anyone can provide to this NEWB in MTB. Looking forward to many fun days.
Thank you so much for any and all help that anyone can provide to this NEWB in MTB. Looking forward to many fun days.
03-28-14, 02:58 AM
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Welcome to the Forums 
When it comes to wanting feedback on CL finds, it is best to link to them, as a) there is usually a bit more info/pics and b) allows anyone who may be inclined to look for other candidates. Here are the ads for the bikes in question:
Trek 3700
Specialized - Hard Rock Sport - Mountain Bike
When it comes to wanting feedback on CL finds, it is best to link to them, as a) there is usually a bit more info/pics and b) allows anyone who may be inclined to look for other candidates. Here are the ads for the bikes in question:
Trek 3700
Specialized - Hard Rock Sport - Mountain Bike
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03-28-14, 03:18 AM
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Arrange a test ride for both bikes. You'll probably get a good sense of which bike fits you better and rides better in just a few minutes of riding each bike.
On an mtb, you probably want a couple of inches of standover clearance if you ride off road at all. If you don't, it's not much of an issue.
Entry level bikes typically see very little maintenance so you may want to budget an extra $30 to $50 for a basic tuneup at a bike shop.
Also, budget some money for a helmet, a ulock plus cable, and a pair of lights. Some other standard accessories you should have include a basic set of bike tools, a tire pump, and a patch kit.
Keep in mind that a brand new trek 820 lists for just $369, meaning it's street price will probably be around $330. At such a low price, I'd be far more inclined to buy new. That way, you'll have a choice of sizes to ensure proper fit, have everything properly adjusted at the shop for free, and you can come back at the very least for one free 30 day tune up.
On an mtb, you probably want a couple of inches of standover clearance if you ride off road at all. If you don't, it's not much of an issue.
Entry level bikes typically see very little maintenance so you may want to budget an extra $30 to $50 for a basic tuneup at a bike shop.
Also, budget some money for a helmet, a ulock plus cable, and a pair of lights. Some other standard accessories you should have include a basic set of bike tools, a tire pump, and a patch kit.
Keep in mind that a brand new trek 820 lists for just $369, meaning it's street price will probably be around $330. At such a low price, I'd be far more inclined to buy new. That way, you'll have a choice of sizes to ensure proper fit, have everything properly adjusted at the shop for free, and you can come back at the very least for one free 30 day tune up.
03-28-14, 09:02 AM
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2000 Specialized Hardrock A1 Comp FS - BikePedia
That is an oooold Hardrock. I would not pay $200 for that.
2007 Trek 3700 - BikePedia
Trek is also overpriced. More modern than the Hardrock, but I'd probably pay like $100 for that.
That is an oooold Hardrock. I would not pay $200 for that.
2007 Trek 3700 - BikePedia
Trek is also overpriced. More modern than the Hardrock, but I'd probably pay like $100 for that.
03-28-14, 09:49 AM
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Imo they're both ok for what it is. I'd shoot for something with disc brakes tho imo and the grip shifters eeeeh. Could always offer 150 if you're that concerned
03-28-14, 10:11 AM
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I choose Trek, only because they warranty their Mtn Bikes for riders up to 300 pounds, and my 280 pound fat @$$ seems to feel comfortable with that warranty. That's the only reason why all my bikes are Trek, unfortunately I also have a hybrid and road bike, but they don't warranty past 225 for either of those.
