First proper bike

[Jakubk]

Basically, I am in need of an upgrade and due to bikes being sold out everywhere, halfords seems to be the only option for me right now, I am thinking between the BOARDMAN MTX 8.8 and the CARRERA CROSSFIRE 2 2020. Opinions?

[Jdsk]

How experienced are you?

How will you use the bike?

Dropped or straight handlebars?

Price limit?

What do you want to be different from your current bike?

Jonathan

[eileithyia]

Agreed as per Jonathon, what are riding expectations and requirements. Plus budget.

If you have a usable bike what is wrong with it and can you continue with it for the short term... it is likely a lot of C-19 bikes will be in the sales in weeks to come as the furloughed work force returns to work and the weather turns to autumn and winter....
Currently a lot of bike shops are running out of choice and restock could take some time.

[Bonefishblues]

Let's see if the OP returns. The two bikes quoted have a rather large price span, so will be interested to see the buying & usage criteria.

[[XAP]Bob]

Also...what’s your current bike? What’s working for you, what isn’t.

Road vs track vs rough stuff...
How much stuff do you need to carry...
So many questions

[Bonefishblues]

OP returned this morning, but didn't post.

[Jakubk]

How experienced are you?
Ive been cyclying for years but would call my self a beginner, I have never had enough money to buy a new bike, they have always been hand me downs and second hand bikes, Ive alwasy worked with what I cold get my hands on.

How will you use the bike?
Mostly road, but I do go off road at times

Dropped or straight handlebars?
Stright for sure

Price limit?
up to £700

What do you want to be different from your current bike?
Well my current bike is an old second hand bike that rattles when cycling..


Im honestly just looking for advice on a good beginner Hybrid bike, it doesnt have to be the two mentioned.
Jonathan

[Bonefishblues]

You've come onto a specialist cycling forum, so people are anxious to give you the best advice, hence the questions to clarify requirements, but in general:

Don't bother with the suspension forks unless you're doing serious offroading. Look for tyres at least 35c in size, or larger, for cushioning (they are no more effort to pedal than skinny ones). Your benchmark for weight should be something at say 14 kg/30lb max, preferably a little less. Lighter bikes are more enjoyable to ride. Higher price = less weight, by and large.

The big issue at the moment is availability of stock, so look in Decathlon, Halfords, Evans, Rutland Cycling etc and keep your eyes peeled. If you can get a test ride, that will help ensure you get the right size for you.

[Jakubk]

You've come onto a specialist cycling forum, so people are anxious to give you the best advice, hence the questions to clarify requirements, but in general:

Don't bother with the suspension forks unless you're doing serious offroading. Look for tyres at least 35c in size, or larger, for cushioning (they are no more effort to pedal than skinny ones). Your benchmark for weight should be something at say 14 kg/30lb max, preferably a little less. Lighter bikes are more enjoyable to ride. Higher price = less weight, by and large.

The big issue at the moment is availability of stock, so look in Decathlon, Halfords, Evans, Rutland Cycling etc and keep your eyes peeled. If you can get a test ride, that will help ensure you get the right size for you.

Thank you very much, I undersntand I am completely new to this in comparrison to everyone on here so all the questions will help me think about what it is I am actually looking for!

[[XAP]Bob]

If the main issue with the current bike is rattles... then a toolkit and some fettling might get you an excellent return...