Newbie to cycling - asking advice for entry level road bike to buy

[Zebra]

23 hours ago, bleedToWin said:

I don't like telling people keen to start riding to wait, but in this case saving up is the right advice.

Where I disagree with the comment is the "in the first couple of years" part. If you buy a R5k bike you will have to immediately spend money to get it in good running order. At the very least a service, new chain, tyres, cables. Add to that the need for riding gear and you've spent another R5k already.

What you are considering is equivalent to suggesting to a prospective runner running their first marathon to do so in whatever shoes and kit they have lying around the house. They won't have a good experience, and they won't continue with the sport.

Hmmn, I disagree. 3 years back, I needed an Eroica (read vintage) bike. Spent R1.5k buying it, R 1.5k sorting it. Alpina. I now ride it 20 -30x per year, when not on my 2 Specialized MTB’s. Heaps of fun, down-tube shifters, I love it.

It may not be for everyone, but where I disagree with you is your statement “they won’t continue…” - when OP might like it so much, may then spur him on to greater heights, and a then a better bike….

Just saying it can be done/ I did it, and enjoy it!
Cheers

Chris

[Jensie]

I am riding a Giant for the past 5 years (newer model_ and only have good experience with them, Bought damaged frame and repaired and still riding it. Sizing is right. I'm 178 and ride a 56. . I think you will need to replace the chain and cassette as mentioned earlier and that will set you back +- R1100. So negotiate them. Good Luck 

[Duane_Bosch]

This is going to be an unpopular opinion.  My 2c. New components and Ali trump old worn high end stuff and carbon. That TCR is as old as god and is going to give you nothing but heartache.

This is a lower spec but it's modern and IMO a MUCH better buy. It's in your neck of the woods and the sizing is right. You can buy this and not spend a cent for a long time. It even comes with MTB pedals so you'll have access to a big variety of cycling shoes to buy. The only potential issue is the steerer has been cut which could negatively affect fit.

 

https://bikehub.co.za/classifieds/item/road-bikes/636667/giant-contend-large

Edited July 5, 2023 by Duane_Bosch