Starter road bike on craigslist?

Question

I'm having trouble finding a cheap used (or new, whatever works) road bike on craigslist for under $250...I'm not sure where I'm going wrong but all the bikes I find that fit the criteria are 1960's or 1970's models...and I was looking for something more like a 2007 or 2008 model. I found some new Schwinn starter bikes on various sites, but they don't exactly look trustworthy. It also seems the general public recommends going onto craigslist for a good deal on a used road bike...the problem is I just can't seem to find one.

Help?

Answer 1

Nothing wrong with older steel bikes, sure the components may not be as efficient etc, but they're d**n reliable and steel makes for a much comfier ride than Alu.

Why limit yourself to Craigslist? Try eBay as well.

Answer 2

Yes, CL is a good source, but good deals go fast.  Look every morning and contact the seller as quickly as you can.  Keep some money handy.  Money talks.

Answer 3

craigslist is basically your local want ads online. if no one's selling what you're looking for at the moment, then look at other options. post on craigslist yourself. note what you're looking for, and how much you're looking to spend. also, check in with your LBS(s), tell them what you're looking for, maybe they have, or know of something. if you're looking for an '07 or '08 in the $250 range, you aren't going to get a whole lot of bike. a good road bike (new) will start around $600..

Answer 4

A lot of LBS will take trade in's if they are in good condition. Check with them and see if they know of any used bikes. They will also know of avid bikers who trade/sell bikes frequently. I have seen lots of junky bikes sell for lots more than they are worth with rust and worn out parts. Before buying have them send you good close photos of the brakes/gears/weld points.

Answer 5

With gas being $4+ a gallon. Bicycles and scooters are a hot commodity. Craigslist can net you a good deal, but it is all depends on timing. You probably will have a better chance of finding a road bike if the area you live have a large population of road cyclists. I lived in a small town, mainly everyone road a mtn. bike, but we also had more trails for people to ride on. Since moving to a larger city, I see more people on road bikes.

Finding a mid-2000 bike for $250 will be difficult but not impossible. Besides relying on Craigslist, check your local bike shop to see if the have any trade-ins or a wall dedicated to people wanting to sell/buy stuff. Also check the paper, garage sales, or even Ebay (see if there is any bikes you can buy and pickup, so to save on shipping). Just keep your ears and eyes opened. Maybe you can find one at a police auction. You might not find one tonight, but be diligent and you'll find what you want. Remember, act fast. Good Luck!

Answer 6

I would keep looking. they do come up every now and then. I found a fairly new (2 year old) Trek not too long ago on Craigslist. Be patient and keep looking. Also, pawn shops are a good place to look and see the bike in person.