Firstly, I should start by saying that I do not mountain bike and have never done so, which is why I am seeking advice from knowledgeable people about bikes. I apologise for any ignorance.
I have received a trade offer on eBay (UK) for my sim-racing rig, selling at £650. The buyer is offering to trade their "Nukeproof Scout Hardtail in size medium" (images are the bike in question), plus an additional £250 in cash on top. They also provided a parts list, containing the following:
- RockShox Recon forks
- DT Swiss wheels
- brand new DMR metal pedal
- Strp slate evo brakes
I have tried to look at past sales for this bike in particular, but the prices they have gone for on eBay vary drastically from >£1k to £600, so I decided to ask here to see if I could possibly get an indication of what this bike would be worth and if the trade would be worth taking.
If I were to get this bike, I would defo want to use it, as I've always thought off-road biking was an exciting hobby. However, living in central London, there are practically no areas where I would be able to use the bike off-road, despite our many forests and parks, which would result in me having to take a long journey by train out of the city to trails, which is of course quite inconvenient, I guess? Additionally, storage is an issue, as I would not feel comfortable chaining it outside due to the prevalence of bike theft in London, meaning I would likely have to pay a monthly fee for the underground bike storage offered by my building. (I can't store it in my flat as we don't have the available space to do so)
Lastly, having spoken to the buyer who is offering to trade the bike, I do not believe this bike to be stolen, as their profile indicates a long history of owning the bike and dealing in bike parts. Additionally, they informed me that they had recently installed new pedals, which further convinces me that it's legitimate.
My questions, therefore, are:
- Is this bike worth acquiring for around £400, considering the costs of owning it in London?
- Is the bike in good condition based on the images provided? (Again, I don't know anything about mountain bikes)
- Does anyone from London have experience owning a mountain bike and know of any good beginner trails/parks within the city, and the best way to take a bike out of the city to ride on without the use of a car?
Many thanks to anyone who can help.
by marlemar
4 Comments
Probably not a bad deal at that 400 mark. Keep in mind a recon is different than the fork pictured (yari). That is a bit of a red flag. Also there are lots of sales on new bikes going around as the global market and specifically the bike market are hurting. Might be worthwhile pricing out selling your sim and buying new. Lots to go wrong on bikes and there is a learning curve associated with fixing it yourself (or it gets expensive).
For london, a hardtail will be fun to ride around in the city as well as catch a train to some proper trails. Definitely make sure it is locked up safely INSIDE. Bonus points if you get it a blanket and warm tea as it might be cold in storage.
As for $$$. I don’t know your specific situation but considering you live in london you’re probably relatively accustomed to expensive things. MTB and biking in general had been easily my worst financial decision ever. I wouldn’t trade it for a thing. The friends I’ve met, the adventures/places I’ve been, and the health benefits it has had are irreplaceable. Have fun and safe shredding.
Yes. Very good value. Almost questionably good value.
1) is it the right size for you? Look at the size specs for that bike
3) what area of London? Epping forest is very easy, the Olympic park in Stratford has a mtb track
You got a different fork listed there than what’s in the picture. Is he swapping the forks for the sale? The recon is a lower end fork than the Yari pictured.
Also looks like a 1×10 speed. Typically we see 1×12’s now but I mean if you’re not climbing steep hills you’d be fine. I’d be curious to know what the gear ratio is though (highest gear and lowest gear.)
The components look to be pretty solid though.
Also what year is it?
I’d say ya it’s probably worth $400. But the bigger question is do you actually want it? Sounds like it would be an inconvenience for you to own and ride. I’d figure that out first before you make any trades.
Also would they be shipping the bike or are they local? It would be nice if you could inspect it in person first.
Edit: also do you know for a fact that it’s your size? How tall are you?
This sounds like a great deal and hardtails are the most versatile bikes there are. You did not mention your height, a medium frame is for people like 5’6″-6′ so not sure if you re around that height range. But I always recommend a hardtail as the best first Mt bike.