Hi,
I am thinking about purchasing a second hand tri bike. I found a pretty decent bike from 1997-1998 with a complete Shimano 105 group and Rigida DP 18 rims for €250 (about $360). I have added a picture and parts specs. Would you recommend me to buy this bike given the price? (the appearance of the bike is not important to me)
Thanks,
Sander
PS: I am clueless about the frame type or brand. I have done an extensive internet search but came up with no clues on the build of the frame or fork . The seller bought it from a triathlete but has no idea about bicycles himself. The badge on the seat tube says "man & machine - Speed & fun". Do any of you have a clue about this frame make?
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The link to your picture
The link to your picture does not work.
Also, I am no expert, but you need to determine what is more important to you. Would you rather have a new bike with components that are below 105's. Or would you rather have an older bike with older and used components that are better than what you can get on a new bike.
I would suggest going out for a spin on the bike and see would it ride and how it fits you if you are able to. Look at everything and see if the components are in good shape or if they are worn out. If the components are in good shape and you like the bike and how it fits, go for it. $360 is a good deal for a bike with 105 components if it is under 10 years old and is still in good shape. Also, check to see if the wheels are true or have a hop to them. If you have to replace the wheels because they are worn out, I might suggest getting a new entry level bike because it is getting to be the time when shops will have deals on last years models in order to get them out the door. Good luck.
That is a strange looking
That is a strange looking frame, never seen anything like it. The 105 of today is going to be better than the 105 of yesteryear, but $360 is in the ball park. You certainly can't get a more recent model for that price.
Man, that is one of the
Man, that is one of the strangest bikes I have ever seen...
The fact that you can't find much information about the bike may or may not be an indicator of the quality of the bike. It looks as thought whoever had this bike, or whoever set the bike up knew a thing or two about bikes. The cable routing looks pretty legit, despite the VERY strange frame shape. Based on the components, it's probably mid-90's (someone correct me if I'm wrong there)...
In any case... it seems decent for the money. You could probably find something a little more normal for the same amount of money, but if that's not important to you, go for it.