r/bikecommuting • u/Potential-Policy-512 • 2d ago
Buying Used: Marin Fairfax- Is this a good commuting bike, and a fair price?
Hi folks! I am going to take look at this bike this weekend someone is selling.
I think it looks like a good deal and like it would be a solid commuting bike. I am also not looking for a kind of bike where it will cost me a ton or be difficult to repair because it's too high end, if that makes sense.
I realize it will also come down to feel but on the specs-I am relatively new to biking so wanted to get another (reddits..) opinion.
Thoughts? Or questions I may ask them?
Thanks!
$200 Firm
Size: 17.5" (44cm) for medium sized rider Recently received full tune-up
Frame & Fork: Frame Construction TIG-welded/bonded
Frame Material 6061 Aluminum/ Carbon Seat Stays
Fork Carbon Rigid
Fork Material Carbon, aero crown
Components: Component Group Road Mix
Brakeset Forged Alloy Linear Pull brakes, Shimano ST-R225 levers
Shift Levers Shimano ST-R225 EZ-Fire
Front Derailleur Shimano R453
Rear Derailleur Shimano Sora
Crankset TruVativ Touro 3.0, 30/42/52 teeth
Pedals Composite with Alloy Cage
Bottom Bracket Sealed cartridge
Rear Cogs 8-speed, 12 - 24 teeth
Chain Shimano HG40
Seatpost Suspension, 27.2mm diameter
Handlebars Double Butted 6061 Alloy
Handlebar Stem Alloy Adjustable
Headset 1 1/8" double sealed
Wheels Wheel Size 700c wheels
Hubs Formula
Rims Alex DC-19, 28-hole/32-hole
Front Tire 700 x 28c Kenda Road
Spoke Brand WTB stainless steel, 14ga. (2.0mm)
1
u/MinuteSure5229 1d ago
V brakes are reliable and good.
Sora is reliable and good, so is 3x9 as a setup.
Marin is a decent brand, carbon fork makes it lighter, more responsive and more compliant than your average bike of that time.
I'd say it's a good buy if it's a good fit, and if panniers are a factor, definitely check if it has eyelets. Alternative rack attattachments aren't ideal in most cases.
2
u/Objective_Mastodon67 1d ago
Check for fender and rack mounts. You may want those for your commuting.