Viewing a single comment thread. View all comments

HairyBull t1_j14gsoz wrote

At that price range, you’re probably going to be looking at something like an entry level Trek.

For bikes, there’s really 2 things you want to be looking at, the frame and the set of components. You probably want to have the strongest and lightest frame you can afford and then the components (shifter, derailed, etc) would be the basic set. Over time as you get a better idea of how you ride you can choose to upgrade to more expensive components or not, depending on your preferences.

Disc brakes are OK, but expensive for what they are. They keep your braking power more towards the center of the wheel so when you go through streams or large puddles you keep the braking surface clean - which may not be important to you if you stick to mostly roads.

If you don’t have a lot of experience riding a bike for daily commutes or weekend fun, I’d recommend looking for a decent used bike that has most of the features you want and then after 6 months of use you’ll have a good idea of which components are important to you and which aren’t. Bikes haven’t really changed all that much in the last 50 years and sometimes you can get really good deals on a used bike.

8

destinationbedamned t1_j14kj4m wrote

I agree, it's pretty hard to find a really great bike for under $1000 so find a used bike that's in good shape to save money. The bikes that I see people ride for decades typically have the fewest amount of moving parts, so they tend to be fully rigid frames. That being said, of you wanted things like suspension, as long as the frame is good you can swap out parts as they wear down and keep a bike running for many years. I recently did a full overhaul on a used mountain bike where I swapped out most of the drivetrain, got new suspension forks, and had all the bearings serviced and I was able to do it for under $1000, and should keep that bike on the trails for many more years to come. As long as you avoid buying high performance parts you should be able to do everything on a budget.

3

hidz526 t1_j1717f2 wrote

Really great points. Upgrading components later is a great strategy. My husband is a cycler, & worked in a shop for a while. The only thing I would add, is you should get fitted (or sized for lack of a better term) for a bike. Even if you buy used, you can look for something n the size range. This is much more important than I first realized. Go to a professional cycle shop if at all possible & ask about this.

Getting a frame sized for your body & learning where the seat should be, (moved forward or back as well) will mean the difference between a comfortable, enjoyable ride & discomfort in shoulders, arms, low back, &even your hands.

3

Gamer_Bread_Baker t1_j1fl9t3 wrote

I agree with the simplicity. If you decide to get a fixed gear, about $1000 can get you an amazing steel bike that’s pretty light. I’d go for Wabi if you do want one.

1

Sargaxon OP t1_j15zkwp wrote

Thank you for the advice, much appreciated!

So what would you recommend I should be looking out for? What is must have, what is nice to have, and what should I avoid?

2

Handball_fan t1_j163p0q wrote

I would look for a second hand gravel bike for your needs.

I wouldn’t discount old cyclocross bikes even the real old ones , I ride a thirty year old Alan cyclocross every day only cost me €100.00

What I’d be looking for.

GRAVEL: Scott , Specialised , Cannondale , Trek , Kona

vintage cyclocros: Alan , Wilier , Bianci , Peugeot , Motobecane , Eddy Merckx , Colnago

3

Handball_fan t1_j16423s wrote

Should have also mentioned that you will find second hand bikes way cheaper in Italy

3