lcdel

Hi all! I'm trying to buy a used bike in Boston for general fitness on paths and commuting in the city, especially now that public transportation is a no-go. I'm really inexperienced with bikes and have only ever ridden a flat bar hybrid, and I'd like to dip my toes into a road bikes or single speed to see what I'd want to invest in for a nicer bike in the future. Used bikes are pretty expensive here, though, so I'm having trouble finding something light, my size (5'6 F), and around $250 but not rust-covered.

I found this Fuji Feather on Marketplace and it looks like it's in really nice condition--I could try to talk them down from $400.
There is also a Shogun 400 that looks older but is a lot cheaper, and the free delivery is really tempting with the COVID situation too (That might be too risky, though).

Is either of these a decent brand? Do the prices sound fair?
I can wait it out for a couple of weeks and stay on the lookout if these are both bad options. Thanks for any help!

ramzilla

I thought that Feathers were lightweight single speed track bikes. So, you may have a problem going up any steep hills. (unless you're 16 years old & weigh 115lbs.) The Shogun 400 is near the other end of the bicycle spectrum. A sturdy heavier durable bike that would be well suited for loaded touring. Personally for me, I'd go for the Shogun. Just make sure the wheels & tires are in top notch shape.

Mr. 66

I like the Shogun, but it is 27" tires.

lcdel

Is that too big for me/the bike? I don’t know too much about tire size.

Bianchigirll 

I would go for the Shogun, having different gear selections is better than not having them. Yes it has 27" wheels but Panaracer still makes a good 27" tire.

They are both good brands and I think for Boston the price looks OK.

curbtender

Looks like a good size.

lcdel

If I can throw one more in the ring, this Cannondale R600 just popped up on the market: https://boston.craigslist.org/gbs/bi...105995974.html

Bianchigirll 

delbiker1 

I like the Shogun, but, I am partial to steel framed bikes. For you, with the lack of experience, the drawback to that bike is the downtube shifters and fewer gears. The above Cannondale is a good option, more modern components. It should be a good, smooth ride. Also, it looks like it has clearance for wider tires. 28mm width tires, at least 25mm, is a good target point. I think you would do better with a bike with gear choices, opposed to a single speed. In addition to height, your leg inseam length is a big factor in fit. You definitely want something that fits you correctly, Both bikes look to be a good price for what they are. Try not to be in a hurry and to not settle for something just because it is available or has a good price. Just my opinion

himespau 

Do any of them fit you? Remember, you don't need to be able to put your feet down while your behind is in the saddle (in fact, if you can, it's probably too small). Based on the stem, I'd guess the Cannondale was a bit small for it's previous owner. Unless that's a technomic stem, I'd be concerned it's out past it's insertion length.

ramzilla

The Shogun 400 must have been a very successful model. I've seen at least a dozen of these for sale over the last few years. Usually around $200 or higher. Shogun built good quality & value bicycles back then. (It's interesting that after all these years that the Shogun brand name still appears on brand new bicycles). Most or the older 80's model Shoguns were made in Japan. (But, it became too expensive to build them in Japan after around 1990 and, off to Taiwan. Giant factories & robots). The bike in the OP is a high quality item that would compare to some pretty expensive modern stuff.

lcdel

So, unfortunately I only saw this after I pulled the trigger on a different bike that I tried which someone pointed out to me! It’s a 2012 Masi CX Uno that was $250 + a lot of extras thrown in (repair kits, bags, multitools, pump). I hope this was still a good buy! Here’s a photo, not my usual color but it’s really growing on me.