Curious as to whether or not this is a good deal; as people have started to find, the eBay toy code seems to work for more than just the Toys category, and this bike would seem to be included in that. Buy It Now price is $498 (down from a purported RRP of $849), and with the code entered at checkout, the end price comes out to $398.40.
Because it weighs several kg less, is more well-made and durable, has higher quality gears etc which mean they won't throw the chain or simply break… you do get what you pay for.
Bargain doesn't mean cheap. Kmart is cheap stuff at the proper price for cheap stuff. Bargain = good stuff for a lower than usual price.
True, I've spent more than the cost of this bike on throw aways from Kmart/bigw etc. Although in fairness to the bikes, they had a really rough life. Guess I answered my own question.
Wow - sub 10kg for a flat bar at this price is nice. Sora/ Tiagra mix is also decent compared to K-Mart type bikes and you get a good warranty.
You don't always get what you pay for…plenty of people pay way too much for cheap shit, and sometimes you can buy good stuff for cheap.
I dunno that saying "you get what you pay for" is stupid IMO, that leads to idiots buying shit like Monster Cables, I think a better term is, sometimes paying extra will provide a better experience or save you money in the long run….not as catchy, but at least it is accurate. ; )
totally agree nmartin, as a cyclist myself though there is a noticeable difference with better kit. Sometimes it is worth the extra few $ for something of better quality or with additional features. I know I have noticed a massive difference with better, lighter wheels on my road bike. I have even noticed a difference with different types of tyres on my bikes.
Similarly though I have often bought higher end kit for less than or the same as 'lower end' stuff because I have bought it out of season or as new models come out etc. Favorite tactic ios to buy cycle clothing from Amazon at the end of the US seasons.
Totally agree though, the blanket 'get what you pay for' is often rubbish. I once bought a pair of Castelli bib tights for riding my bike. Australian RRP was about $250+, I bought the exact same tights from the US for $80. Local shops had much inferior tights for about $100. had I bought the more expensive tights I would certainly not have been getting the best deal.
Because it will last longer, be easier to ride up hills, parts will work better and wear out less. Shifting of gears will be smoother and you will be less likely to break down on a bike path or street somewhere far from home.+
I bought one of the Polygon 24" bicycles for my 8 year old daughter several months back. A higher level of equipment than the similar price competition (21 speed, front disk brake and bravo forks) and pretty happy with it so far. I did have to assemble from the box, but no dramas.
Give me the bottom line. Is this bike worth it for someone who just enjoys going around the block at night up a few hills then back down to get some exercise? Or can I get away with something from Kmart?
You can get away with something from K-mart. Cheap bikes are ok for those who don't ride much or don't want to invest too much on something that they might not even use that often.
Any comments on the slightly more expensive 105 for a beginner? http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Polygon-Helios-F500-Flat-Bar-Road…
Just about to hit buy
Grabbed one of these when the 15% off everything on eBay was on, very happy with it!
I know I'm going to get negged for this, but why would I want this bike over, let's say a $150 Kmart bike?