sunny85k

Hi,

I'm new to cycling and just joined this awesome bike community. I'm looking for a used bike on CL and came across few options. Given my limited understanding of bikes, I'm hoping if you could share your thoughts based on your experience and knowledge.

Based on my height (5'11.5''), inseam (33'') and budget (<$350), I've shortlisted the following bikes listed on CL in my area:
1) 2008 Lemond Etape - 57 cm ($275)
2) 2001 Trek 2300 - 56 cm (~$300)
3) 2004 Cannondale R700 (barely used) - 58 cm (~$300)

Any advice would be highly appreciated!

Thanks,
Sunny

Seattle Forrest

Test ride each of them. The 3 most important things in a bike are: how it fits, how it fits, and how it fits.

sunny85k

Thank you for the advice! Yes, I'm going to test ride each of them. I was just not sure if there is going to be a noticeable difference in terms of comfort and durability based on make/model/year between these three options.

Kars 

My 2 cents: Pay attention also to quality of frame construction and materials used. Is it steel, aluminum or carbon. My personal preference is high quality steel will be most durable/desirable and for me least desirable is aluminum.

fietsbob

The other part of buying Used is it will have worn parts that need replacing..

so that cost is in addition , and unknown.. without careful inspection by someone with expertise..

Kimmo

Bikes have been improving, newer stuff works a bit nicer, especially on the low end.