morgothaod

I want to check out some used road bikes at a shop near me. Are there any brands that you recommend for me with a $500 budget? I have never even sat on a road bike so I am totally clueless. Thanks.

bampilot06

I would double that and it will open more options. At 500 dollars you are not going to find anything new that would be worth purchasing.

bikesdirect.com might be the best place to start looking if that is your budget.

big john

You need to figure out what size bike you need first. You might be able to find a decent bike for $500 but you'll probably need someone to help. At that price, brand shouldn't be an issue.

rubiksoval

Russian components, American components... All made in Taiwan.

TakingMyTime

All good advice.

Does your budget include any of the "essentials" like a helmet, spare tube and repair kit, maybe a water bottle and cage, a pump? Those alone could add $100 to your "out the door" cost. and if that is the case you're looking at $400 bikes now. If you need to stay in that range, take someone knowledgeable with you. Your budget puts you right in the category of "entry level" and you're not going to find a lot of high mileage bikes that will carry you through the years.

Tacoenthusiast

Fortunately for the op, he is looking for used bikes

Amt0571

I started riding with a Triban 3A that I bought new for 399€. Alu frame, steel fork, Microshift 3x8. Had no issues with it during the five years I rode it until I decided to upgrade. I even did a few centuries with it.

It was definitely worth purchasing IMHO. Cheap for the fun it provided.

bampilot06

missed that.........

morgothaod

I'm not going to be using the bike a ton. Just for times when I decide to ride on some trails. I made the mistake of selling my mountain bike for a comfort bike and I don't want to end up with another bike that I don't like. That is why I don't want to spend a ton of money. Plus, I think I can still have fun without having an expensive ride. $500 is the budget for just the used bike. I'll add extra for accessories if I need them (I already have a helmet, pump, multi-tool kit, and saddle bag). Will someone in the bike shop be able to help me find the correct size?

shelbyfv

The shop will be more than happy to put you on the correct size. Right now inventory may be a problem. You aren't likely to have many choices. Don't worry about the brand if you find a bike you like.

eduskator

If you are shopping for a used bike, the asking price will vary so get the one that has the best deal & the one you're most comfortable on. At 500$, you can still get a decent bike, but it will be older.

morgothaod

Thanks for the advice, I think I may try to see if someone for the bike group of my city would be willing to help me find a bike. They have a facebook group, maybe I can join it and go from there.

Germanrazor

Unfortunately, their stock is severely depleted too like everyone’s.

vlad1xxi

Your goal is to buy used aluminum bike with 105 component group level. Bikes with carbon frame will be expensive or in a bad condition. Bikes with lower group do not have any sense. So I would consider CAAD 8 and up or Specialized Allez. The best brands for you are Cannondale, Trek, Specialized, Giant, Scott. Good luck!

force10

My local shop had a 2000 LeMond Buenos Aires in good shape all freshened up for $600 before Covid-19. Now they have pretty much nothing...

Something older might work nicely if you can find it.

oldwinger14

Beside looking for a used bike at local shops, you may find that you will get a better bike for the same price using Craigslist. Whether you go to shops or use CL, though, you really need to have someone knowledgeable with you to provide good advice. Don't assume the bike shops and, especially, CL are looking out for your best interests. Good luck!

morgothaod

Funny that you mentioned that. I found this in my area:

https://tampa.craigslist.org/pnl/bik...136391861.html

big john

Small bike. Are you 5'5"? Stiff, quick handling bike. Seems a little high to me but if it's really nice and fits you it might be worth it.

morgothaod

I'm 5'7"

CGLTD

I recently found my talon sl for 500 in great condition

big john

It might work, I really can't say. Have you sat on a bike to see what size might work for you?

morgothaod

No, I have never sat on a road bike! I don't even know how to shift gears on one.

big john

I think you should find a way to get on one somehow. Rent one? Some shops rent. Any friends have one you could try? You can work on shifting after you get the feel of handling the bike. We are all different, A size that's comfortable for you might not work for someone else the same size as you.

I'd hate to tell you to get a certain bike and then after you ride it you find it causes you pain.