I am new to the sport and an thinking of buying a new road bike. However I have a few questions. I bought a old used (15 years?) Mercier (steel, 12 speed, traditional crank) off the internet for 100 dollars and love it. I use it primarly for commuting and an occation 25 mile ride. It is tuned and runs well. However I am think of buying a new road bike.
Generally speaking, how much better is this bike that the one I have? I know you guys will have to say that you have to see it. But let call it a 15 year old Mercier 12 speed steel with all stock components. I would rate the bike in good condition for its age. The bike was made in France. So it may be even older.
I just dont want to shell of this money if the bike will not be much better. My intention is the ride at least 2-3 times per week for 20-30 miles each time.
I am new so I am sure I will have a lot of questions.
The difference will be like night and day! Bicycling technology has improved quite a bit over the last 15 years. You will find that the frame will be much lighter and more responsive. The shifting should be more crisp and sure than your older bike. You will also have closer gearing so that it won't be such a stretch to go to the next higher cog.
This is a good bike at a good price. The original Motobecane went out of business years ago, but another company bought the naming rights and have been turning out some really nice bikes at a good price. Its not got the highest end components on it, but what it does have on it are really good, dependable components and really nice for the price. I'm telling you to Go For It, but you are going to find a lot of differening opinions on this thread in a day or two.
I understand Bikes Direct products require some assembly. Unless mechanically adept and possibly requiring some tools you may want to consider having to pay a few bucks for assembly at a LBS.
