First time buyer. Needs some advice on a CL find.



frn27

New Member
Oct 9, 2012
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I'm a pretty avid hiker and now want to get into cycling, mostly road and occasionally dirt paths, trails of moderate difficulty. I came across a 2009 Fuji Absolute 2.0 for $200 on CL. Since this is my first go at biking I don't won't to spend too much and figured I should start used. The seller said it needs new tires but the bike is ride ready otherwise. If the frame and components are all in working order and intact and the only think it needs are new tires and a tune up, is this a good deal? Of course I will still test ride it and make sure the size is right for me but I just wanted the opinion of more experienced riders. Thanks!
 
If it is in good condition then it is probably worth $200. Tune up will run you around $60 - $120 depending upon all that it needs. Higher side if they need to replace the chain and cassette, lower if everything can be reused. Tires will be $20.00 and up depending upon quality that you want.

Things to look for: Pull the seat post out of the seat tube and look in there with a flashlight. Look for a white powdery substance in there. If there is a lot, then the aluminum frame is excessively corroded and you will want to pass on this bike.

Check the welds carefully, looking for any sign of cracks. If this bike has been ridden extremely hard, the welds can start showing signs of stress. If the paint has started cracking around the welds, then the welds themselves are suspect.

Just to protect yourself, see if the seller will let you take the bike to your LBS for an inspection. They may charge you a small fee to take a look at it but it would be better to be safe than sorry. They may even do it fo free if you leave the bike with them to do the tune up.

BTW, if it needs new tires, you might not be able to get a test ride on it.
 
The Fuji Absolute 2.0 is an OK bike. Generally, Fuji Absolute owners don't do anything worse to their bikes than leave them outside in all kinds of weather, get flat tires, and forget to perform maintenance that should be routine. This includes replacing tires, brake pads, cables, chains, and cassette cogs when they get worn, and adjusting the derailleurs and brakes. If all of these check out, the bike is probably worth $200.
 

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