sparkhee93

I'm looking to get into cycling with my wife and wanted to get a entry road bike to start. On CL, I'm stuck between 2010 Specialized Tricross ($240) and 1993 Trek Composite 2200 ($260). The specs are as follows:

Specialized (link here)
Sizes: 54cm Tires: 700 x 32c
Components
Brakeset: Tektro Oryx, cantilever brakes with cartridge pads brakes, Shimano Sora, 8-speed, STI, flight deck compatible, with Specialized brake levers

Shift Levers: Shimano Sora, 8-speed, STI, flight deck compatible

Crankset: RPM forged alloy compact crankset, 48x34T teeth

Pedals: Composite body, alloy cage, with toe clips and straps

Bottom Bracket: Shimano UN-25, 113mm spindle

BB Shell Width: 68mm English

Rear Cogs: 8-speed, 12 - 25 teeth

Seatpost: Specialized carbon fiber, 27.2mm diameter

Saddle: Specialized Road Saddle, full padding

Handlebar: Specialized Comp handlebar, alloy racing drop, 26.0 Clamp

Handlebar Stem: Specialized 3D forged alloy, 10 degree rise, 26.0mm clamp

Headset: 1 1/8inch Specialized Mindset Plus integrated threadless, sealed


Trek (link here):
Carbon Frame

16 Speed

700c wheels

21 inch seat tube

54cm top tube

The question is, which one should I go for? With my limited knowledge, I come humbly before the BF. Thanks in advance.

khoelsema

I have a 2009 TriCross Comp (Mix of Ultegra and 105 components) and I love it! The ride is very compliant/comfortable and the bike is very versatile. It'll fit wider tires than the Trek you're looking at. I also own a Trek 2300 Composite that I have sunk a lot of money in and also really love. But for a beginner bike, I'd recommend the TriCross for it's exceptional value and versatility.

Ultimately, when looking at a used bike you need to consider how well it has been taken care of and what shape it is in. That might be the deciding factor in your case. If a $200 used bike needs a $100 tune up plus $50 in parts, it's not really a $200 bike.

billyymc

I'll second the vote for the Tricross, and not just because I own a 2007 Tricross Comp.

Khoelsema is spot on about it being more versatile. Since you're a beginner you don't know exactly where you'll end up riding that you enjoy. Being able to put wider tires (probably up to 35mm) on the Tricross will allow you to ride rough roads, dirt and gravel, as well as regular paved roads.

I bought mine used in 2009 and have over 24k miles on it.

sparkhee93

My hands were tied and I ended up getting the 1993 Trek Composite 2200. Besides the seat that's way too stiff and truing the wheels a bit, it's in a good condition. Just took it out last night for a 5 mile ride and it was a lot of fun! Thanks for all your help!

ksryder

lol

MyTi

Well i don’t think it’s a bad idea picking up an older bike and upgrading parts. I just bought a old trek 8000 and came with shocks. Going to put a $50 Chinese carbon fork on it, some semi slicks, new saddle possibly, etc

khoelsema

Not at all!!! Buying an older bike and upgrading it can be very cost effective and a great way to learn basic bike maintenance and setup. But if someone is buying a used bike for the first time, they aren't likely buying it with the intention of swapping out a bunch of the parts.

Atlas Shrugged

Beautiful! The lure is in the water.