Hey everyone, thanks for stopping by to help.
Let me preface this by saying that it’s been almost two years now that I am contemplating getting myself a bike. At first I was not quite sure what type of bike to start off with so did extensive research around that. I instantly knew that I wouldn’t be particularly interested with major off-road trails which got me to lean more towards road bikes or gravel bikes.
I love the concept of a gravel x adventure bike where it can essentially serve as a commuter bike, you can still hit some light off-road trails without worrying too much about breaking the bike and lastly that you can always run two sets of wheels and essentially have a fully functioning road bike to smash some longer rides on.
My major limiting factor was MONEY! I am a second year uni student and the absolute most I can fork on a bike is USD 1200. This automatically rules out any new carbon fibre bikes which leaves me with the second hand market as my only hope.
I’ve just stumbled upon this listing – 2015 Diverge Expert Carbon who I think might have been upgraded? It’s got a 11-speed Sram Force CX1 groupset. Featuring a 44t chainring and an 11-36 cassette and a 175mm crank. It’s recently been fitted with brand new SRAM shifters. It’s rocking a set of Zipp Course 30’s disc which can be setup tubeless.
Seller is asking for USD1000 and seems to have taken good care of the bike.
MY QUESTION IS, HAS THE DAY FINALLY ARRIVED? SHOULD I GET IT? OR ARE THERE BETTER / CHEAPER OPTIONS OUT THERE?
by TheArray
14 Comments
Looks like a solid bike for a decent price. Cant go wrong with diverge. Make sure it has had a tune up.
I’m not sure about US pricing but that looks like a good bike, if it fits you then go for it
Looks like a good deal just make sure everything is in good condition especially since it’s an older carbon frame and always budget a few hundred for a tuneup and unexpected repairs. Also keep in mind it’s an older Diverge so tire clearance won’t be as abundant as the new models (38mm I believe).
Looks like in good condition and it seems like a bargain. I have got Specialized Crux Pro 2014 with force, second hand as well, and I am extremely happy with it.
Noticed scratching on rear derailleur, so probably have fallen on that side. Highly recommend checking if the cage is aligned and not bent.
I can’t talk about the frame but the groupset and the wheels are nice, solid options.
I have an older Diverge like this one and still enjoy the bike. This bike can take a max tire size of 35mm in back and 38mm in front. So long as you don’t need bigger tires than that this bike is really good.
I would certainly buy one at that price if I didn’t have one already. I run 34mm tires on mine and it’s great.
Only if it is the right size frame for you, and if you are OK with a max tire width of 32-35.
Looks reasonably priced. If the seller is asking for $1000, they’re expecting $900, so maybe offer $825 as an opening gambit… but only if:
1) You’re confident it’s the right size
2) There are no gouges or hairline cracks in the frame. There may be a couple of paint chips, which is fine but anything bigger can be a problem on a carbon frame. You can do a quick and dirty check: lightly tap along the frame with your fingernail or a hex key, listening to the tone of the sound you make. If that tone changes when you tap the gouge or crack, walk away.
Good luck and I hope the bike’s all good and that you love riding it.
Seems like a solid deal. Definitely check it over and test fit. Sometimes they’re too good to be true so do your due diligence. If it’s the real deal it won’t last long.
Does it have enough tyre clearance though? I’m assuming you will want to fit 35-40mm tyres on it so definitely ask the owner what is possible before buying.
There’s nothing more frustrating than seeing someone like something and get excited, and then ask “is there a better cheaper option.” ffs. Buy the bike. Cheaper is never better unless you’re super broke or have a mental issue related to needing to get something cheapest. Best is what you like. Forget what other people say. Sounds like you should buy the bike I can feel your excitement in the post. Forget all the people who are obsessed with cheaper/better mentality. Expensive is fine, deals are overrated and by the time you read these posts someone else who isn’t obsessed with the ridiculous idea of cheaper/better comparisons from modern capitalism already probably beat you to a reasonable deal. 🤷🏼♂️✌️
It’s a sexy bike. Take it for a test ride and make sure it fits. I’ve owned bikes that don’t fit me and it’s a nightmare.
That gearing is not conducive to climbing. Not sure what your terrain is like but you might need to factor that into the cost.
It won’t be the most competent gravel bike with such limited clearance but it can certainly get you into the sport. Make sure it fits before you pull the trigger, that could be an expensive mistake.