Road racer bike?

Question

Hi

Am looking to buy a road racer bike but am unsure as to what size 1 should get I'm 5ft 4in. i have got 300-£400 to spend what could I expect to get for that.

thanks

Answer 1

In this price range, you are really looking at entry level road bikes from companies like Trek or Specialized. In this price range, I would really suggest that you look at used bikes. You will get more value and arguably something with a better frame that will last you longer. Check out Ebay for road bikes. There are a ton.

In terms of size, at 5'4" you are probably in the neighborhood of a 50cm frame, give or take a size. I would go to a shop and get measured. Fit is crucial on any bike, especially on the road. You can have the best bike, but if it is not right for your body, it's useless.

Answer 2

At that cash flow, your choices of brand-new equipment is fairly limited. As in - there are no "true" race bikes available. There are several entry-level road bikes, but they aren't designed for racing in terms of gearing, stiffness, weight, or aerodynamics.

On the other hand, you could probably find a reasonably-priced used race bike (albeit a low-end one) on eBay or other online 'superstore' apporach. However, you can count on it being an aluminum or steel frame (with associated stiffness and weight penalties), instead of a titanium or carbon unit.

Frame size is dependent on several things - the foremost of which is your inseam length and the 'reach' from your hips to a comfortable hand position. These determine the overall geometry of the bike (vertical height and longitudinal length); everything else is more-or-less fine tuning those basic elements.

I would suggest you go into your local bike shop, and try several frame sizes of several different manufacturers to see what combinations work best for you. It doesn't mean you have to buy from them - but they should have the experience to get you fitted correctly. Then, once you've found something that works for you (because of my body geometry, I tend to ride Felt road bikes exclusively), go look around to see who has a reasonable price.

Answer 3

trek, specialized, giant, and cannondale all make entry level road bikes for slightly more than what your price range is. You can certainly find a great used bike in that range. Go to a bike shop that has used bikes, they'll fit you to one in your size, probably something in the 48 to 50 cm range depending on your inseam.