Beginner looking for a road bike in LA - advice needed!

[timeforanewbike]

I used to ride 10 speed road bikes long ago and now interested in getting back into it. I live in LA, in a flat part of town and want to go out for a morning ride for an hour or so. I have a max of $400 to spend. I completely realize you get what you pay for. But for now, I want to buy a bike that will get me going for a little while. I'm looking at these bikes (57-59cm) on Craigslist. Any particular one that screams "best deal". Thanks so much for any input!

http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac/bik/3252718811.html
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac/bid/3257662550.html
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac/bik/3257669414.html
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/sfv/bik/3241227179.html
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac/bid/3227699885.html

 

[Brian in VA]

2 of the 5 were deleted. Of those that haven't been, I'd call it a toss up. If they're mechanically sound, I don't see any difference.

For $400 you can get a decent bike on CL if you're willing to wait. I snagged a 15 year old Giant CFR3 for $200 last year that I've since put a few hundred dollars into and 2000 miles on with no issues. In fact, I want to buy a new bike but I can't find one that I really love the ride and feel of without spending $200 per pound. /img/vbsmilies/smilies/smile.gif

Good luck!

Brian in VA

 

[bone811]

Let me start out by saying that I don't know that much about bikes, but I would see if you can scrape together another $100 or so. I just spent $550 on a new bike of craigslist and I am so happy with my purchase. Either way, stay on top of craigslist and look every couple hours, good deals sell fast.