Do things ever work out exactly like you planned when you bring a new-to-you bike home? If you’re reading this, chances are excellent that you probably already know the answer to that question. You may even feel it in your bones, it’s that deep—and you know what? You’re right. I should know better. We all should know better, honestly.
Yet, of course, you spot that dream you’ve been chasing in some classified ad somewhere, and pretty soon, you’re talking yourself into it. You can tell yourself that you’re being as objective as possible, even go so far as to write out lists of both the pros and cons of purchasing said bike. Whether it’s at the seller’s asking price or you plan to negotiate doesn’t matter—what matters is how firmly you’ve convinced yourself that this is the ONE.
