[manthony]

Hello all,

I'm looking to buy my first "serious" bike and would appreciate some advice. I plan using the bike to commute and also to ride trails sometimes. I can spend around $600.

I really would like to get a bike soon, so could anyone (Possibly you?) look at these four bikes and tell me if they're possibly good bikes for the price. I am looking for a bike that will hold up well.

2005 Specialized RockHopper
http://mcallen.en.craigslist.org/bik/3109286062.html

GT Timberline
http://mcallen.en.craigslist.org/bik/3139739135.html

2003 Specialized StumpJumper
http://mcallen.en.craigslist.org/bik/3161041146.html

Roadmaster Mountain Climber
http://mcallen.en.craigslist.org/bik/3155394416.html

 

[manthony]

Alternatively, if you think I'm better off going to a bike shop or if there is some extra step I should take, please give me a heads-up.

Thank you

 

[kneedrachen]

I think heading to your local bike shop (LBS) is your best bet. You can get a nice hybrid which will serve your purposes much better than your intended choices as listed.

The advantage of going this way is that you will build a relationship with your LBS which helps in the long-term as well was usually pick up more along the way.

I have had used bikes that the seller tried covering up problems crash damage, chain suck and other problems. The other advantage of going through the LBS is that your first adjustments, sometimes more are free.