I doing some \"pre-shopping\" for what will be my first tri bike and have come to the conclusion that the best bang for my buck will be in the used bike market. I was hoping you could offer some advice on what to look for (and what to look out for, too) in buying a bike unseen.

I have done some homework on bikes I think I know what brand and model I want and am planning to go to my local shop to determine what size frame I should be looking for. After finding and buying the bike, I plan to return to the shop to have the bike fitted to me specifically.

As a secondary question, do you have any ideas on other websites to find used tri bikes outside of e-bay/craigs list? Selection is obviously quite limited on these two sites.

Eric from Connecticut

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Hi Eric,
Thank you for contacting TriathaNewbie.com!

If you are going to be investing your money and time into a sport with a piece of hardware that will transport you hundreds of miles, push speeds of 40 pmh and is the only thing between you and the ground, it might be nice to cultivate a relationship with a trusted local bike shop (go small business) that can make sure that piece of hardware runs perfectly.

The advice we would give is pretty much what you have already covered in your email:

1. Making sure it's safe.
2. Doing your homework and finding a decent brand name.
   We like the Trek bikes here because you can get a decent bike for a decent cost.
3. Properly fitting the bike to you.

With this relationship you can meet other cyclists, who might just have a spare tri bike they want to sell, or buy a used one from that bike shop. Lots of shops sell used bikes and it might be a good idea to call around to the ones in your area to see what they have. Even if they don't have one, they may be able to point you in a direction of someone who does!

Be well,
Jack

TriathaNewbie.com Staff Member

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