Hey everyone,
I’m training for my first half Ironman in April, which means I’ve got about 4 months to get serious about my bike training. As a runner making the jump into triathlon, the whole bike-buying process has been overwhelming. I’ve been combing through Facebook Marketplace and OfferUp for the past 3 weeks, but it’s been a real hassle, especially since I’m not sure what to prioritize beyond the frame size (I’m 5’8” and need a 54cm frame).
Earlier this week, I posted about a used bike from a shop, and thanks to this community, I avoided overpaying for what would’ve been a bad deal. Now, I’ve found two options on Marketplace, and I’d love your advice:
Option 1:
• 2020 Specialized Allez (54cm)
• Frame: E5 Aluminum, Fork: Full Carbon
• Asking Price: $850 (he’ll go down to $700, and I offered a free haircut since I’m a barber on a budget)
Option 2:
• Trek Madone 4.3 (54cm)
• 10-speed Shimano 105 groupset, Bontrager wheels/handlebar/seat
• Continental Gator Skin tires with good tread
• Minor wear and tear, sticker under the chain for protection
• Asking Price: $700 OBO (he’s willing to take $400) I shared my story with him and why I was doing the half Ironman and he was willing to drop it down to that price and he’s down for the free haircut too lol.
I’m completely new to bikes and legit have no idea which one is better or what would suit a beginner triathlete better. Are these solid deals, or should I keep searching? Any advice would mean a lot—thank you in advance!
by SDIssac
6 Comments
I like that Trek, especially at that price.
At that price, go with the Trek. Great bike and you can save the extra money for a bike fit and some tri bars.
Without reading anything; first one looks sick as hell get it
It’s impossible to give you a good opinion on either bike because you didn’t give a full component list and the pictures you posted are backwards, so we can’t see the parts of the bike that would help us help you judge between the two. It’s honestly probably irrelevant because 1) a Specialized Allez and Trek Madone are both super kickass bikes that are not in any way purpose built for triathlons, and 2) you are a first-time triathlete and first-time bike-buyer, so the hyper-specificity of the bike is completely fucking irrelevant.
I don’t mean any of this unkindly. Just go ride both bikes and buy the one you think kicks the most ass.
What year is the trek
I’d go with the trek. Price is good and it gives you money to buy your kit, helmet and other gear. I would recommend replacing the gatorskins, especially during summer.