The Zeitgeist

I understand that, for the most part, Women's specific bicycles are usually only different from the Men's versions in a few ways: a shorter toptube, a longer header and paint scheme.

The crux of my question is whether those differences would keep you from riding one if there were no Men's bikes available.

Also, have you ever purposely purchased a Women's version because it fit you better?

I ask all of this because my LBS (Giant / C-dale) is all out of Defy (Men's version), but has one Avail (Women's version) in my size for a sizable discount.

Just wondering if there are any concerns other than the ones I mentioned that I should consider before buying it. (It really is a good price!)

I have been looking for a road or hybrid on Clist and Ebay for under $300.

This is the first bike that seems to meet my criteria. I am looking for either experience with or information about the quality of the Motobecane brand and/or the quality of the components.

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

http://motobecane.com/lifestyle/elt.html

BTW, I plan to use it to go to school (10 miles one way) and to eventually complete a Sprint Series triathalon (15 mile bike split).

Oh, almost forgot! It's on Craigslist as a 1-year old for $150 obo.

I have been riding an OLD 10-speed that is starting to throw the chain when I want to shift between chainrings. (Shifting between gears 1-5 is challenging, but successful).

It is so old, I can't even tell what make it is or what parts it has. Is it worth it to try to restore it or better to buy a new one?

If it is better to buy a new one, should I stick with a road bike or get a hybrid?

I wish to mainly use it to bike to school (10 miles one way) and to complete a Sprint series triathalon next October. This is only a 10 - 15 mile ride. Please note that I DON'T expect to be competitive, just complete it.

Most bike shops I have been to recomment a road bike as soon as I mention a tri, but they are about twice as expensive as hybrids. I am hoping to pay around $300 for a bike and would like a new one so that I can ensure that it is the right size and works well.

This brings me to another question. Should I trust a used bike like on Craigslist or Ebay? I could get a road bike there for that price, but is it too much of a gamble?

Finally, I have been looking online at some bikes but can't tell if they are any good. Could you please look at these links and give me some feedback? I am hoping to start training and riding to school in January.

Thanks for any useful advice!

This is a tri bike I MIGHT be able to afford. Is it too good to be true?

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/dawes/lt1500.h...

This is more my price range, but I don't know the brand. Is this just a BSO (bicycle-shaped object)?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item...

These are two hybrids I am considering:

http://www.target.com/Schwinn-700C-Trail-Hybrid-Bi...

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/dawes/eclipse2...

Why can't I ride a hybrid in a triathalon? Are they that heavy? It doesn't seem so. What's the catch?

Please watch the video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=akm3nYN8aG8

and tell me if you still think it was a good thing that we invaded Iraq.

complain about not being able to disagree with Obama without being labeled as racist are the same people who claim that those who disagree with Palin are sexist?

First, let me admit that I am American and have spoken English all my life. Second, I am not arrogant enough to believe that only Americans use this site.

Therefore, I understand that people from all over the globe post question. My question is where does the term "maths" come from. I have always understood that the school subjects (math, history, English, Spanish, etc.) do not get pluralized. For instance, I wouldn't say, "I am failing Englishs."

Is "maths" the way it gets translated from a different language? Please understand that I am not trying to insult or criticize. I am truly just curious to see if anyone can answer this.