How do I find a good used women's road bike?

I'm competing in my first triathlon in two weeks and I plan to do more in the future. Unfortunately, I am using a run-of-the-mill "mountain bike" (think, the kind of bike you might get at Target).

I want to buy a used bike, but I don't want to spend too much. I found a barely used Terry Symmetry for $450 and that is probably my top spending limit.

I am 5'4" - do I need to look specifically for a women's bike? If not, what size frame do I need?

Thanks!!

Terry bikes are GREAT bikes, specifically designed for women. The Symmetry does come in several models, the lower end has Tiagra components, and higher end comes with a mixture of Ultegra and 105s. The lower end models start at around $900 new, so a price tag of $450 doesn't sound bad at all for a barely used one, and the upper end models run around $1,499, in which case, if that's what you're looking at, $450 sounds like a pretty great deal! To find out what type of components are on the bike you're looking at, look at the derailers, they will have the words "Ultegra", "105s" or "Tiagra" written on them.

As far as what size you need though? It's really hard to say, especially with a Terry bike! On a Terry, you can't go by the frame size. The larger Symmetry bicycles come with a 650 wheelset, but the smaller ones have a 700 rear wheel and a 24" front wheel--the combination of the 2 different wheel sizes is to help reduce the danger of "toe hangover" on smaller bicycles--this is where you run the risk of having your toe hit the front wheel when turning at slow speeds, which could make you fall when riding.

And no, you don't necessarily need a women's bike. Women's specific bikes (WSD) are usually designed so you don't have to stretch out as far, and the handlebars are a little closer together, so you don't have to stretch your arms as far apart. This can be beneficial, especially for shorter women, but many women prefer the men's design, especially if they're taller or have a longer torso. It's not just a matter of your height, but your build as well.

First I would definitely check Ebay or craigs list, they usually have good deals, compared to your local bike shops. Although you can still visit the bike shop and sometimes either the owner or workers may no of someone that is selling a bicycle in perfect condition fitting your needs. Only thing is try to get something that actually fits your physical characteristics, let the bike store guide you on some fundamental about the prpoer bike size for you. Otherwise you'll be riding around on a bike thats to small or too big and uncomfortable and you probably would'nt now it because your thinking thats the way its suppose to feel, but in actuallity its totally un-productive and could cause damage physically later down the line.

Good Luck

I would go to a local bike shop and ask to see their used inventory. You can test ride several bikes and they will tell you what size frame is best for you. I wouldn't recommend buying a bike that you have not seen in person and ridden.

www.craiglist.org

Frame sizing is an art. A lot of people say you need a frame small enough in order to be able to stand over it with both feet flat on the ground. Then, for seat height, have someone hold the bike while you get on it. Put both heels on the pedals and pedal backwards. If your hips go up and down, the seat is too high - your hips should stay horizontal. If the seat is too low, you won't be able to lock your knee out while the pedal is in it's lowest position with your heel on it.
Frame size is more about how long your legs are. I'm guessing at your height, you will need the smallest men's frame - like 48 or 49. (19") - maybe even smaller. I'm 5'6" and I have a 49 frame, but I have a few things you don't need to worry about.
You also want to adjust your seat back or forward so that when your foot is at 90 degrees (as far forward as it will go) your knee on the same leg does not go past your toes.. You want the handle bars to be far enough forward so your back is flat.