Quote:
Originally Posted by manwiches
Hey CP.
Looking for some opinions on purchasing a couple bikes (for my wife and I). Background, neither of us have owned a bike since we were 15 (15+ years now), and were looking at getting bikes just to putter around the city (we live in Regina, so not too much elevation changes, but some ground/terrain changes) during the Spring/Summer/Fall months. Probably go out once a week at the most, and are looking to get a chariot as well for our kid.
We aren't bike enthusiasts at all, have gone to the local bike shops here, as well as the Sport Chek. Local stores start at 600+ for bikes, while places like Sport Chek start at 150. In any event, we aren't looking to spend a lot of money, but we also don't want to be regretting our decision in a couple years. We want to buy a couple bikes that will last us for the next 15 years.
We've looked at a bunch of bikes and types, and have narrowed it down to this one from Sport Chek. (both male and female versions)
http://www.performancebike.com/bikes..._1164910_-1___
Original price is $550, end of season price is $440, and today they have the Friends and Family event for an additional 10%. All in all, it'll come to an approximate 800ish price tag, which is kind of hard to swallow, but at the same time, we are getting a bike for $400 each.
Thoughts? Also, any suggestions on cheap Chariots or even going used? I heard they retain their value pretty well? Any advice by the end of the work day would be appreciated, as I'm planning on pulling the trigger tonight.
Thanks! |
I was in the same position as you at the start of summer.
I opted to get something pretty good and bought a Specialized Crosstrail, which is a hybrid just like the one which you're thinking of buying. Its much faster on the paths than my hardtail mountain bike.
I also considered the Kona Splice and the Trek 8.5 DS but went with the Specialized instead.
We also bought a Chariot earlier this year and used it quite a bit. We found a last year's model at one of the bike shops in Calgary here so it was cheaper than the 2015's. Also, as a heads up they re-branded the Chariots to Thule but its the same units and parts/accessories are still interchangeable. You're right, the used units still are pretty pricey, so be bought new.
We also bought a double even though we have only one kid. Liked having a bit more space and the option to fit kid #2. The thing is really good quality and I was surprised how it felt back there. I can barely feel anything while I'm pulling it.
Good luck with your search! Only issue may be sizing this time of year. Many places are out of sizes unless you're buying XL or X-small frames....