cvall91

So I've been looking around for a new bike for my dad. I checked Craigslist today and found this:

https://miami.craigslist.org/pbc/bik/3486830135.html

Looks like a pretty decent deal considering it's a carbon bike with 105 for $700. Looks in fairly good condition but I just don't know the size. Hoping it's a 54 for him. I think it's pretty obvious the seller is not a bike enthusiast since in the listing he says "Tires need air." Which could mean the bike hasn't been used for much. There is a picture of the receipt, even though it doesn't list the actual bike. So hopefully not stolen. Maybe can talk down the price.

Thoughts?

CenturionIM

It's a decent deal. But key point: the bike is bought in 2006, as shown on receipt. That probably means old components (i.e. 5600 105 shifters as oppose to the current 5700, old component generally is one step down from their more recent cousin.) and old tech in the carbon frame. Even though it looks good, the rider might have put quite some miles on it and I would be wary buying hard-ridden old carbon bikes. It could also be that he hasn't ridden it for a while(tire needs air).

Ask questions, test ride, and inspect yourself. Make sure the frame is good and hasn't been crashed.

jwill87ta

Just by looking at the frame compared to the wheels it looks larger than a 54. Maybe a 58. Good luck

WhyFi

In terms of function, I think that 5600 shifts a little better/faster than 5700, the wiring is just uglier.

cvall91

Ah yea I see it now. The sloping top tube distracted me. It has a fairly large head tube. I'm gonna ask, if it's larger than a 56, that'll be the end of that.

For that same price new, it would be the new sora (I don't know if they changed anything besides the now black shifters) or probably even 2300. My current bike has the new Tiagra which I'm sure is the old 105. Just caught my attention as it's a nice looking bike that appears to be in good condition. But pictures can be deceiving.

rumrunn6

a lot of money for a used bike with an unknown history, meaning wut if the guy crashed it and it has some microfracture somewhere that you can't see

DaveWC

Woah, tires need air. I dunno about that.

Seriously, what kind of maintenance can you expect if the dude can't pump up the tires?

cvall91

At the same time, I expect the guy hasn't put much use to the bike if he thinks the tire lacking air is an issue worth listing. But then again this could also mean, like you said, maintenance was minimum or non existent. I'm gonna ask what size it is then check it out.

Could end up being a nice barely used bike or a cracked carbon frame that's taped together.

Youngin

OP, that's a great deal. 5600 is fine, reliable and compatible. Like you would with any bike, check it over for any issues. Used carbon is not damaged carbon. Also, find a geo chart online and print it out. Take some measurements to see what size it is. Speculating online is pointless.

Read up on reviews. You could start here. https://www.roadbikereview.com/cat/la...6_5668crx.aspx

You're not buying the latest greatest so you're getting a fair price. I don't know why you're getting so many negative replies. Be smart before buying and you could have yourself a steal.

jdon

That bike hasn't been used. Check the condition and if all is well, make an offer. You can phone the bike shop with the invoice number and have them check the records. If the sellers name is a match, it isn't stolen. Great buy if the size is right for your dad.

Odin99

that looks like a great deal to me. flat tires is actually a good thing - it indicates it wasn't used much! it looks close to brand new.

i sold a 2005 fuji with 9 speed ultegra and worse wheels with many many more miles for more than that recently... and i didn't even sit on it long... that would go in less than a day in my area

Dunbar

I would buy that in a heartbeat if it was the right size. Being a Tarmac you could flip it pretty quick for a $200-300 profit. But I'm in agreement that the head tube is too tall for it to be a 54.

seymour1910

I would buy it if it were in my area. If it has really been sitting for six years you may need new tires.
It is taking a chance but not all used bikes are bad. I bought a used bike that had been stored for a couple years. I had to get new tires and have the drivetrain cleaned but I love the bike and my LBS kept telling me what a deal I got while they were getting it raod ready for me.

SteveFromNY

it does look good, but like others have posted, that bike looks to be bigger than a 54cm. I'd also guess 58.

seymour1910

I see the bike is still listed, have you been to check it out?