I have to imagine +1000$€£ bikes longevity won't change much as you spend more and more, or even diminish as you get into carbon frames. I'd be hesitant to ride old carbon and wouldn't bat an eye at old bent rusty steel.
My 2008 Carbon Trek Domane continues to do me as great as day one and except for a scratch on the underside of the bottom tube, it continues to look great, too.
What's wrong with an aluminium bike if you're not a super competitive rider? The extra weight compared to carbon even works in your favor on long rides as the inertia means you don't have to put as high of an effort all of the time. How much time do you all really spend doing 50, 60 km/h?
I've got a very light bike and I'm very light myself but my easiest ride ever was when I was riding with 10kg on my back. Yes, my top speed was a good bit lower, but the bike basically drove itself once I got going.
I've not heard of any corroded aluminium bikes either. I've got two, one is roughly 10 years old and the other is on its way to 20. Both frames are like new.
Yes, weight is overrated but no, it doesn’t work that way.
Yes, there is inertia but no, it doesn’t give you free energy. The inertia is there because you accelerated that mass before. And constant resistances (rolling, wind) mean you always have to accelerate, even if you don’t feel it. When going uphill, you also accelerate against gravity.
Bottom line: A lighter bike always means less energy spent accelerating (all else being equal) which means it’s faster than the heavier bike. The positive “inertia” feeling at hight speed with higher weight (or downhill) is a psychological effect. You can at max get back what you put in prior (in reality, not even that).
Where your feeling is correct though is that top speed is where you feel the bike’s weight least of all, i.e. a heavy bike is not slower than a lighter bike once you’ve accelerated it, all else being equal.
What? Carbon lasts incomparably longer than any metal alloy. It's stronger, completely immune to thermal expansion (hence doesn't become brittle overtime due to "metal fatigue" and crack out of the blue like alu alloys), completely immune to corrosion, etc.
Old metal alloy bikes can crack out of nowhere - carbon ones won't. So it's exactly the opposite of what you said.
Please buy more high end bikes so I can buy last year’s bike barely used for a massive discount 🤣
I’ve been riding my CAAD 10 for over 10 years (some breaks in cycling in between). Usually new bikes are to fulfill a purpose that ones I currently own can’t.
Haha, I was going to say to OP there’s definitely a subset of people buying new bikes every year since they can (or I guess could, maybe not these days) get a decent chunk of money back from selling a lightly used bike every year. Not saying it’s a financially sound way to do things, but I used to wonder who was spending 10k on a new bike every year when I realized it’s probably like 3-4k a year. For some folks that’s what they like about biking, having the new hotness every year.
This and after you get the bike immediately strip all the sram force off to replace with dura-ace and put your new take off parts on ebay bc I want some hydro brifters for $100
Same, I got a hard tail mt bike in 2011, and a fat bike in 2018 that get ridden irregularly.
I mostly ride my road bike I got in 2010. I’ve worn out a few tires, chains, and a set of sprockets now. It’s still going strong and I’m kinda fat there will be minimal improvement buying a new one too often. I think at 20 years I might get a new one.
When you get to be my age you buy a new bike for every special occasion: bday this year new MTB, Christmas is Fat Tire, Easter is gravel bike time. I am joking...sort of
Enthusiast subs are heavily biased towards people that are obsessed with their hobby, sometimes to an extreme extent. r/guitar is a great sub but a lot of the people there have massive collections and buy a $1500 guitar on a whim. 95% of the lurkers there probably have 3 guitars they're holding on to.
Ironically it attracts people who are obsessed with spending money rather than their hobby. The better I get at a hobby the less money I spend as I end up optimizing my set ups. This definitely happened to me with guitar where I have everything that I need already and haven't bought anything new in years
>Ironically it attracts people who are obsessed with spending money rather than their hobby
I've been through / started so many hobbies I think my hobby is actually starting a new hobby :/
Well, the only reason I wan't a new mtb is because I want to replace my old one. That one is terribly bad. Skipping gears, loose headset bearings, vad wheel bearings, rim brake, and just a nightmare sometimes
Carbon Road bikes will last a long time if you keep them maintained and don't crash, mine is a 2013 (\~$3k) and still going strong. Mountain bikes may have a shorter life span depending on amount of crashes and how hard you ride. My alloy frame MTB (\~$1k) barely lasted a year, then I upgraded to a carbon frame (\~$3k) and it's held up for 10 years now. I find spending more on the Frame and keeping them maintained is more cost effective than buying cheaper frames that aren't as strong. No matter what you buy the drive train, tires and brakes will need work to keep them in good shape over time.
Sounds you enjoy buying bikes more than you like riding them. lol
Not a bad thing. I have a few hobbies like that.
You probably won’t put down the miles like a lot of other people in this group.
But you will have one of the coolest garages and ownership stories.
And for this. I envy you.
Think of yourself like the Jay Leno of the cycling world.
LOL sadly this is me - tons of not flashy bikes. I have a real N+1 problem but each bike has its own unique use. Nothing to brag about in the entire fleet but I love it none the less.
Although that’s not been true for my gravel bike. I tend to upgrade it instead of buy new. I really really like it though. I don’t road bike, I have one but it lives on the trainer. MTB is about the only that justifies an upgrade for me.
Had my BMC Team Machine (mech Force, originally Ksyriums, later Superteams, replaced everything other than the derailleurs and shifters over that time) for 15 years. New bike (Force AXS, ENVE wheels, etc) bought in February and I hope to keep it for many years.
Obviously it’s not easy to come up with the larger sum in one hit but to me one $5k bike > five $1k bikes. I can’t see the point of replacing a basic bike that works fine with another basic bike. You’ve got to obsess the fit all over again and for zero gain.
I’d rather throw that annual $1k into wheels, a better group, carbon bars and stem, a good saddle, a pro fit, a power meter and HRM etc etc. which would improve your bike, your fitness, your enjoyment. Otherwise you’re just spending money to stay in exactly the same place.
I started riding in '04.. bought a Felt F70 that year. I rode that bike literally every single day for over 2 years, rain or shine. No ride was shorter than 5 miles... I just had that fire in me...but I burned out the BB, destroyed the wheels, and had a crack in the frame at that point. I knew nothing about bike maintenance or that they wouldn't last through all that punishment.
I bought my next bike in 2007 (first carbon bike, a Scott Cr1)...and then my latest bike in 2020, a Giant Defy Adv.. I also had a TT bike (Felt B2) but I rarely used it so it doesn't count...I sold it a year after buying it.
I suspect I'll keep this current bike another 5 years, and that's because I take really good care of it and have upgraded a lot of it (Full Ultegra, 3d printed saddle, carbon wheels). It still looks brand new, i wash and wax it every other week. Probably upgrade the drivetrain one time to Di2 Ultegra (currently running mechanical Ultegra) and maybe get one more new wheelset.
After that, I'd probably be hunting for a 'final' nice bike that has some of the newer gizmos/tech...but depends on what is standard by then.
the bicycle industry is really good at marketing obsolescence. Its a shame that the values of 12 year old bikes have plummeted due to lack of disc brakes, electronic gears and what not. that being said, the acceptance of wider tires and tire clearance has been a game changer. I have an older bike with a max clearance of 25mm that i love, but after riding disc brake bikes with 32mm and seeing the improvement in comfort with zero impact on speed, I dont think I can go back.
20 years ago when bikes were affordable, every couple years. (for context, my carbon fiber full suspension disc brake shimano XT MTB race bike, near top of the line, was $2600 in 2002) I also had 5 bikes back then:
\* hardtail MTB
\* full sus MTB
\* bmx/dirt jump
\* freeride
\* road
Now that bikes are $8k+? basically not unless something breaks. I also only have 2 bikes now.
\* road
\* hardtail MTB
All 5 bikes I had in the early 2000's combined cost less than just my current road bike.
I'd also say it might depend on what kind of bike your talking about.
MTB has completely changed in the last 15 yrs. Like not even comparable. Slacker geometry, muuuch better suspension, 29" wheels up from 26".
Road likes to pretend things have changed, but they haven't evolved that much. Disc brakes, if you want them, and wider tire clearance is about all that's notable. More aero but heavier, but debatable how much faster that really makes you real-world unless you are racing, so worth upgrading? meh. Modern aero wheelset on a slightly older frame would be just as good IMO. (some aero wheels on a 10 yr old supersix evo himod and you have a killer bike)
I'm not a mountain biker, so I can't speak to that comparison, but $2600 is like $4500 in Today's $. In the US that can still get you a very high quality road bike. Agree though that bikes are becoming too expensive for features that the average person doesn't really need!
My road bike is 12 years old. Current drive train has around 11-12k on it. The frame is the only original thing on it.
As for the yearly cycle, try riding through the winter.
I only buy a new bike when I think there is enough new tech that I'd enjoy.
My last bike had rim brakes, cable shifting, used 23mm tires with tubes, and was 11 speed. My new one can accommodate 30mm+ tires, uses tubeless tires, wireless shifting, 12 speed, and disc brakes. I don't think any one of those would have made me switch, but all of them combined have made riding so much more enjoyable.
Even though it's a few years old, there isn't anything on the market that would make me want to switch. Sure, you can find a slightly lighter set up, maybe it's a touch more aero, etc., but it will be too similar to what I have in terms of actually riding it.
My advice, don't get suckered into the latest marketing and only part with your money when you think what's out there will make your life better. 28mm tubeless tires, wireless shifting, and 12 speed sram with a ratio closer to 1:1 has made a huge impact on how I ride and I couldn't be happier.
I've been of the "buy once, cry once" mindset, and got the best road bike that i could afford. i'm very happy with it and as things wear i just upgrade them (if it makes sense). i'll keep it until i outgrow it, in either size or skill level. case in point, my first dirtjumper was low end and after a couple seasons i outgrew the quality of the components and built a new one.
From personal experience having ADHD, novelty is a huge factor for finding motivation to ride.
The conclusion that I've come to over the past few years, though, is that the amount of novelty rarely correlates with the amount of money spent.
Ideas of things to play around with to keep the novelty factor high before you drop $1k on a completely new bike:
* Get yourself a used BMX for $100
* If you don't already have one, it can be fun to play around at the skatepark on occasion
* Try experimenting with crank length
* Cruz cranks off AliExpress are only \~$30 and you can get any length you want from \~120mm on up
* Try out different suspension stems
* On my rigid bike my favorite so far is a Meroca stem that runs about $40
* Try oval chainrings
* Try different types of grips or grip tape
* Try different gloves
* Try some guerilla landscaping
* Basically my own spin on "tactical urbanism" -- bring a pair of hand pruners on rides and start going after stuff like trees that are hanging too low over bike paths or in the way of sight lines for cars to be able to spot cyclists
My first years in cycling I swapped a lot, but I now have two bikes (gravel and mtb) that I'm happy with and have very little I'd like to change. I plan on keeping these bikes for a while!
Used to be 1 or more bikes per year (mtb and road). Then I realized I was only buying into marketing bs, and trying to sell used bikes to fund new bikes was more hassle than it was worth. I'm now at a point where I haven't bought a new mtb since 2015 and bought a used gravel bike in 2022. I enjoy maintaining these 2 bikes and really making them mine far more than I enjoyed constantly new bike shopping.
I like getting new bikes as well. Everytime im getting a new one, i sell an old(er) one, so my number of bikes doesnt go too high. in the last 10 years i had about 12 bikes - atm i have 4 ...
Hopefully never again lol. Joking aside I could see myself upgrading to di2, but other then that I’m just a dude riding and my current bike gets me there quick enough.
I have enjoyed the small upgrades like, wheels, tires, cockpit, etc
In the past 10 years or so I've bought a MTB, a touring bike & a road bike. All for different purposes. Had the road bike now for about 6 years. Although I have been eyeing up other bikes I doubt I'll replace it until either myself or the bike are well and truly broken. It's still going strong 32k miles in.
Only when I need something new (eg a couple of years ago I bought a gravel bike to use on a trip. I didn't have one), I find a good deal on something that would improve my riding experience (eg a friend was upgrading his 2 year old mountain bike, and I was riding a 13 year old mountain bike at the time), or my bike just needs to be replaced (eg when I was hit by a car).
Buying a new bike every year is certainly not necessary, even if you raced as a relatively high level amateur. (Pro's ride what they're given). But as long as you sell your the ones you're replacing, it's not \*that\* expensive. It's analogous to wanting to drive a new car every 3 years. A lot of people do that without thinking twice. I haven't priced it, but I'd expect a new bike habit is cheaper than a new car habit.
Every 50 years or so...
...seriously, I still have my 1972 Kessels "Eddy Merckx", and it has served me well. Good enough for Eddy, good enough for me...
Keep doing this. Because if you ride a bike now for, let’s say five years, and save up the money to invest it in one bike it will undoubtedly result in a “what have I been doing all these years” feeling.
Not saying you’ll be making huge progress all the sudden, but the feeling of accelerating fast and having that extra edge on a climb or smooth shifting, it definitely sparks joy
I’ve been cycling for 14 years and in that time I’ve owned 14 bikes:
Road: 5,
Track: 2,
Cyclocross: 5,
Mountain: 2
Only one of which was bought new. Most expensive was ~$2400. Currently only own 1.
2021 - first bike. - specialized allez - sora - new
2021 - 1993 Miyata 714 - used
2022 - wife’s 2020 specialized roubaix - used
2022 - Kilo TT - used
2023 - ‘88 centurion Ironman - used, soma rush - built from frame (replaced kilo), 2015 caad 10 (replaced allez) - used
2024 - 94 hard rock for wife, 93 trek 970, Miyata 1000
It’s a lot I guess but the old bikes were relatively cheap and fun projects (all < $200 except the Miyata 1000). My “main” bikes by mileage are the newer road bikes and fixies
I typically buy a new bike every 3-5 years to keep up with advancements in technology and design. It's a good interval for upgrading to newer features and making sure I have a reliable bike for recreational rides.
I rode my CX bike for commuting/road/gravel for a decade, but when I replaced it I bought a road bike and a gravel bike in the same year.
I rode my MTB for 6 years before upgrading, reverted the old MTB back to a rigid singlespeed like it was when I bought it, new MTB is a 12 speed full sus.
My around town bike and fat bike are both 8+ years old with no intention of replacing them anytime soon. The around town bike an early 90's rigid steel 26er, but I built new wheels for it.
The shortest was 4 years for my gravel bike. I really wanted more tire clearance, narrower bars, and a more responsive ride.
The longest was 12 years for my TT bike. Position and fit was perfect, but eventually the frame had so many miles and scratches/gouges on it that I started to worry about it's integrity. And I got tired of trying to slow down deep carbon wheels with a center pull front brake. Disc brakes on a TT bike is so nice.
I'm currently at 6 years for my high end road bike with no plans to replace anytime soon (and it was 2 years old when I got it). And 4 years for my MTB, also no plans to replace anytime soon.
The bike most likely to get replaced next is my gravel. These bikes are evolving rapidly and this is where a lot of the innovation/improvement is happening.
It is super silly to buy a new $1k bike every year.
At least used at $1k you could be getting something cool and it is a bit of a hunt to find a good deal. Plus you can sell it around the same price a year later.
What you are doing is just wasteful IMO except in the case like some people I know who got into totally different types of cycling as they got more into the sport and thus needed a completely different type of bike. I just can't imagine what you are getting that is cool for a road bike at the same price point each year. It's like upgrading your phone every year, there is no measurable difference.
As for me, only my first bike I bought new, a gravel bike which was the gateway to road cycling. I went through a buying, upgrading, and reselling a few used bikes over the past three years but now don't plan on getting another bike for the foreseeable future, as I've figured out what I want in bikes and have them.
I started with a Trek mountain bike. Once I got strong, I kept breaking the spokes.
Then I found a used Motobecane Fantom CX cyclocross. It works for me all the time so I rebuild it when needed. I bought mine for $650 and 10 years of maintenance has been $2,000. Money well invested. It is aluminum, but if I want to lose 10 lbs of riding weight I stop eating pasta.
I’ve bought 3 over as many years. Bought a mountain bike, sold it, bought gravel bike and kept it. Bought a mountain bike for the girlfriend. Waffling over getting an e mountain bike for winter.
It's your life. If it makes you happy, you can afford it and it isn't taking away from you putting food on the table or a roof over your head then go for it.
I have ridden the same bike for 9 years and will probably upgrade within the year to get a better fitting bike, and ride that one for another decade as well.
If I’m honest, part of it is I love blowing by people on new fancy bikes, I’m a little competitive and there’s a feeling I’m not proud of but still kinda good feeling about “your carbon fiber water bottle cage can’t beat my beefy quads.”
Edit: I do want be clear, it sounds like you get a lot of joy from a new bike and I’m totally for that. I have my things that I too love that “new new” experience of. It just feels good. Do you thing, love the hobby, it sounds like that aspect might be wearing off somewhere in the back of your head, but until then dude, enjoy it, new bikes are fun as hell.
I am still using my nearly 30 year old Kona mountain bike. Though next year I will buy new one, if I still continue to use it as much as this year. So I am completely at the other end of the spectrum. One bike for half my life.
The key is to have so many bikes that your wife doesn’t notice when you get rid of one and add another. I get a new one about every year. It brings me joy, just like someone that collects cars. I have nine at the moment:
1. Ultimate CFR (ultralight climber)
2. Focus Izalco (race bike)
3. Ultimate CF SLX (older bike, converted it to my endurance bike)
4. Ridley Helium rim brake (for travel)
5. Co-op ARD (winter bike)
6. Cervelo Aspero (gravel)
7. Scott Scale (hardtail XC)
8. Canyon Spectral (downhill)
9. Canyon Roadlite (for pulling kids trailer)
Thinking of adding a Scott Addict so I can have a race geometry but still fit 35mm tires for BWR California.
My road bike (Specialized Roubaix) is 20 years old and is still fine. I don't road ride much except early season.
My mountain bike (Pivot Trail 429) is 4 years old and is still holding up well. I figure I'll get 2 more seasons out of it at least.
My town bike/commuter (1971 Pugot built as a fixie) is 53 years old like me. No original components. :)
I have two bikes and don't plan to buy another. One is a 22 pound LBS special. Single front gear, 2-speed internal Sturmey Archer S2C geared to 1:1 and 1.33:1, rear coaster brake, front rim brake. This one is my favorite to ride, but obviously only around town.
Edit: it cost me $750 new in Ventura, California from the LBS who built it, because the customer didn't want it any more and they couldn't find anyone else who wanted it.
The second is a Jamis Ventura (ironic, right?) that I bought used but in new condition from Gearin' Up Bicycles in Washington DC for $450. It does everything I needed it to do for multiple Shenandoah rides in the 50- to 95-mile range.
About once a decade for brand new. Used bargain bikes, like vintage rigid steel mountain bikes, 1 to 3 per year, often just to strip parts and then donate frame set to local bike coop.
Since 2004 I’ve bought 5 bikes. 2 (all)road bikes (2004 and 2023) MTB in 2008 and city in 2009 and a second hand trekking/travel bike 2022. City bike I will get rid of. Trekking bike I will likely give to my son in the coming few years when he’s outgrown his current bike. That one will be replaced by something similar but more modern. Other than that I’m not planning on any other bikes for the coming 10-15 years.
Unless I win the lottery that is…
i buy a quality bike for a stoopid good price ride it for a bit have some fun then flip it so probably like once every month 😅. i do have 2 personal bikes i keep for myself tho.
I have a road bike I bought in 2014, and last year I bought a used carbon MTB 29'er from 2014, both perform very well. Not a huge material difference from this to the latest gen, Hydralic disc, 29er, air forks, carbon frame, 2x drivetrain, all for $1000CAD, Can't beat the deal.
I think of mtb as a 36 month lease or like a downhill season pass vs any kind of thing of sentimental value. Tires chains and shock services in off season, always have a great bike to ride when need it and then sell and roll whatever is left into new one for next three seasons.
I have have my road and track bikes for 12 years, got a new MTB 6 years ago, getting the itch for gravel/touring these days. There are others that have come and gone, my average bike buys were more frequent 12-15 years ago, but I was just running thru entry level bikes. Get something you really like and spend time/money fine tuning it. Do you keep your old bikes? How many do you have?
On average I can ride a frame for approx 15-20 years before the frame starts to fail. Obviously this number drops drastically if/when my bike gets stolen which has happened more than once.
My last road bike has been going a little over 10 years and cost about £4k. It's still in use on the turbo. My current road bike is a little more expensive and I hope/intend it'll last me as long.
I also have a £2k cargo bike, at 7yo, and a £1.5k fat bike that's only 4yo. Neither of which are looking in any danger of wearing out any time soon.
Spring 2012: Hardtail. First adult bike! ($1,000)
Summer 2012: Fixed gear. ($700)
Winter 2013: Cyclocross. ($1,200)
n=3 over 12 years of riding.
It's 2024 and I ride the same whips. I love the new adventures and new friends each one has brought into my life.
My next bikes will probably be a full-suspension (Kona Hei Hei, Evil Following, or Pivot Shadowcat) or a more relaxed steel road bike (Ritchey Montebello, All-City Spacehorse)
Bought my first one (starter road bike) in 2012 and got clip on aero bars soon after.
Bought a dedicated tri bike in 2018.
My tri bike is still good, but I’d like to get a new road bike. It’s just… well loved and is pretty rusted on the bolts, so it’s my trainer-only bike (I live close to the ocean in Hawaii. The salt air hits hard.). Unfortunately, I’m not in a financial position to do that now. I’m hoping in the next two years or so.
Mountain 1997, 2005, 2016 (fatbike, not replacement)
Road: 1999, 2017
I still have them all, except the 1997. It was mechanically shot, so I gave it to a friend who broke his frame, and he rebuilt it. Still gets occasional use.
If you know you’re going to use it, just buy a high-end bike. Maintain it until the outdated technology makes it the wrong tool for group rides.
Since 2013 I've bought four bikes and sold one (the eldest) I'm looking to sell another soon. There is no shame in trading bikes or accumulating them just so long as you have room. However if you are constantly buying your bikes new then you have succumbed to marketing IMHO. Used bikes rock. My newest bike is my oldest bike yet
Invest into an indoor trainer. This kept me motivated during the winterdays and it's the first time I've actually made progress in this period. Looked the same for me before... March till October cycling, November to February drinking and gaming.
I bought a very nice cannondale about 15 years ago. Its gone through several rebuilds, a new frame (warranty) and a few drive lines since then. Its still my GOAT even though ive got a shed full of bikes. Life has moved on and it dont have cash to spend frivolously anymore, so I figure its gonna my whip for another 10-15 years at least. Glad I picked a good one.
I spent £50 on my first bike, rode it for a summer got rid. Then waited a few years bought a trek hybrid for £450 50% off almost. I don’t plan to sell this bike ever, I think if I bought a bike that was like a carerra I probably would want to upgrade every year but I’m super happy with my current one.
Only upgrade I could think of is one of those madones but Jesus would need like 50k saved before I splashed on that
I own a few bikes. The bike I’ve owned the longest is a 2012 Trek Sawyer which I bought on 2013.
I’ll go periods where I won’t buy a bike for a couple years, but then I’ll sell/buy multiple bikes in 1 year. I’m in one of those years… The second most tenured bike in my stable was a 2019 Surly Lowside bought in 2019, but I’m in the process of getting it ready to sell to fund a new DJ bike. I just sold my 2020 Remedy to fund a new Slash which I will probably keep for 3-4 years. I might actually walk away with enough for the remedy to also pick up a hardtail frame this year. I’ve turned my e-bikes at the end of each season for the last 4 years and will probably sell the one I bought in the spring once riding season ends this year. And, I haven’t ridden a road/gravel bike in about 5 years, finally sold my road bike last year, but I’ve got the itch for another one though that will likely need to wait till next year unless I come out ahead on selling the ebike.
TLDR: In 30 years I’ve probably purchased 35 bikes or frames.
My oldest bike is about ten years older than me.
My "best" bike is a top of the line felt f-35 from 2006. It's pretty even with my 2005 principia.
I usually don't buy new bikes. I buy good value used bikes and I use quality parts to improve them if necessary.
My newest bike is a specialized enduro comp from 2014. Its a ridiculiusly good enduro bike and it cost me 200$ in 2022.
I bought that because I wanted a mtb.
2014 - Specialized Crux E5 Sora
The Crux I still have and it will probably find a new owner as soon as one turns up.
Now - Cervelo Caledonia with Rival eTap AXS.
Who knows when the next one will be. Probably some time in 2030 or I might just start upgrading the Cervelo. It would be nice to get a MTB some time.
I’ve been on the same hardtail for 10 years until may, didn’t even want a new bike because too expensive. A month later I got a new gravel bike for 6 times the amount of my hardtail and love it
Now I’m drafting up a fully custom titanium rebuild of said gravel bike with high end components that I’m itching to pull the trigger on. Considering the ridiculous price and being completely broke right now I’m nowhere near affording it but I’m set on making it happen within the next year or two, might go more frugal for the next year and then get a loan for the rest once my car is paid off (this is a stupid idea but man). At least if it’s a “small” loan I could sell my current gravel for a decent amount afterwards to clear a big chunk at once I guess
After that I don’t really have anywhere else to go since I don’t feel any desire to ride anything other than gravel (road is boring and I never used my hardtail “properly” because I’m too much of a bitch for downhill or trails, we also don’t have any around)
My TT bike is a 2009 and road bike is a 2015. I have done component upgrades and have kept them maintained. Both are great bikes so no need for something new.
I got a peloton for the off months and actually really enjoy it for keeping the motor strong and if you want a new bike every year and can afford it; by all means do it. I keep a bike for 2-3 years and then move on. Year one is mostly me dialing it in the way I want it to be, year two is beating it to death because it suits me so well and year three is starting to repair it because it is getting clapped. You do you OP.
Buy a goodun and keep it a long time. Mines a Cervelo R3 2015 and it's still a far better bike than I'll ever need. Do like to splurg on good kit and keep it well serviced.
I get new bikes to me. I'm always rolling over components and frames, at least for road bikes.
When i was mountain biking, I got a new bike every couple of years. I thought of it like skiing, every year you needed new gear and a seasons pass.
My MTB is from 2009 and still awesome, and my current Road bike from 2023. I sold the other entry level road bike after 2 years, and now I ride what I like. And I’ll intend to ride it for years.
Enjoy cycling the way you want to. Everyone is different. I buy, fix, and sell bikes all the time. I've had at least 20 bikes in 16 years and am almost net positive $ even with 7 bikes in the stable.
When something needs replaced and the only parts available are listed as "classic" or "vintage". Used to be when I went into a bike shop and they would say things like "Nobody carries those anymore," but I stopped going to bike shops.
I like to build bike more than to ride them. So I have a lot of bikes 😅.
(I buy the carbon frames and wheels in China, and Shimano 105/Tiagra Groupset on discount in Europe and build them at my place, I am still looking for a aero endurance bike like Pinarello X Series).
I expect the bike I bought about five years ago (a 1960s raleigh sports limited edition) to last the rest of my life, unless it's destroyed by an automobile. Before that I'd bought two bikes, both used - another vintage Raleigh which was stolen, and a very heavy modern Schwinn which I still have but is too heavy for commuter use. I hope to live to 80, so that's about once every 26 years.
Every couple years, but I'm not replacing bikes. My primary road bike is ~6 years old with about 30,000 miles (18k outdoor, 12k equivalent indoor) on it. Bought a mountain bike 3 years ago, broke it, got it warrantied, and got a new one last year. Bought a TT bike this year. Probably won't replace anything for a couple more years. May get a gravel bike. Been eyeballing an R5-CX for that.
If your current bike works fine and you don't have a pressing reason to change, consider sticking with it for now. Save the excitement of a new bike for when you truly need or want one.
I’ve bought more than one per year since I got into road biking. Having a rest now for a while….my next one will be a Colnago I’m hoping so might need to save up
Interesting question. So far in 4 years of cycling I've tried my way to finding a road bike that suits my needs and also a MTB. The road bike I bought second hand has been great, zero complaints. As for the MTB i first tried a HT, then a trail bike and finally settled on a XC-bike. So I guess 4 bikes in 4 years, so far. I would upgrade rosd bike again if I didn't have a bunch of old injuries holding me back. No point in going to the extreme withbiles and power meters if I can't go ham.
I started cycling in 2020, and bought one bike, then bought a second one , because the gearing and fit suited me better, this was in 2023, but I sold the first one. So i have only one.
I think having a back up bike isn't bad, but one bike for each riding style.. i.e hybrid /road for pavement, mountain for mountain biking etcc..is what it should be. Having multiple , especially more than 2, for the same type of bike, seems kind of silly and waste of resources.
Still on the first "adult" bike I got more than 10 years ago. Currently I'm itching to get a gravel bike and demote the old one to "expendable every-day bike". Otoh, I see no reason to get rid of a bike as long as you want to keep that "style" of bike - parts can always be fixed or exchanged, frames don't wear out very quickly.
If you mean actually new new. Never had been, and probably never will.
I shop used (Craigslist, fb marketplace etc).
Usually when I buy a bike I’m riding it for at least half a decade…….if not more.
I bought an old 90s rigid Trek MTB for $80 in 2012. After riding in for over a decade, in 2024, I got a buddy that helped me converted to electric—-so dropped another $1,200 on it.
That old trek is not for sale. I mean it probably is, if you’re dumb enough to offer me $5k.
My point being, don’t chase after the newest technology. Chase after how fun you can have, even riding a “crappy” bike.
r/Xbiking
I’m just going through buying a new bike.
I paid AUD$10K in 2009 for a top level bike and am still riding it while I wait for the new one to arrive.
I am usually pretty frugal when it comes to spending but I reasoned there would be less spend over 15 years with a top level bike than a low end. That seems to have been shown to be correct.
This time I’m going second tier drivetrain, top quality wheels, and, at 55, this will be the second last bike I buy.
If you are really getting into it I recommend outplaying the money and keep the bike for 15 years.
I bought two bikes in the early 2000’s, one used. I gave my track bike away last summer in a trade with a friend, and converted my old road bike to a fixie. I bought two geared bikes last year, one new/stock road bike and the other a gravel frame-up DIY build. I’d love more bikes but I’m not planning on buying any more for a good while. I do have a frame that was gifted to me that I’d like to build up. I try to ride my bikes forever.
I enjoy doing my own building/maintenance and do free bike clinics / cookouts in my back yard for my friends. I get my fix by fixing up and customizing their bikes.
I got an old cruiser for commuting 4 years ago in high school through an earn a bike program. I volunteered at a farm for it. Used it for two years but it was rusty and very very old, like from the 70s old, so I got a hybrid. It’s been two years and I still use it almost daily to commute. I just recently bought my first road bike because I began to max out the resistance on my hybrid and take it for long rides. I live in Wisconsin. Blizzards can continue to mid April and it often starts snowing in October, so I’m considering buying a fat bike this winter. Beyond that I feel like I’ll be pretty set… just gotta keep up with maintenance and bikes can last you a long time. Don’t know why you’d want to buy bikes every year lol. I wish I didn’t have to buy these bikes but it’s an investment. It’s so much money lol, but I justify it because it’s still less than a car.
Never just fix upp my current bike. Not that rich to get a new bike like it is the newest phone and not even that is impirtsnt to me.
If the bike rides great why getting a new one.
Personally, I've only owned two road bikes in the 5. Years that I've been riding. One was a used Allez that I loved and got me into the sport. I only sold it when I wanted to go from alluminum to carbon and get something with disc breaks and a better groupset because I was getting a bit more serious. I got a Scott Solice, which was also used, but it was carbon and has a much nicer Ultegra mechanical groupset. I plan on having this bike for quite a while, although I might put a set of carbon wheels on it if I find a good deal.
That being said, I do want to buy a used Gravel bike eventually, but that will be an addition, not a replacement.
I've had my trusty low price trail bike for 8 years and counting! I look after it, it's strong and had no problems with it so far (apart from small component changes). I am getting a bit more serious about cycling and am go out on my bike pretty much every day, so I am looking to upgrade to a higher spec gravel bike. Will definitely still keep the old trail bike for muddy winter rides or more off-road ones.
Only when it gets totaled by a car or stolen. I'm on bike number 3 (as an adult) and I've had it about 10 years. I am saving up for an e-bike, but I still plan to use the current bike.
I have one bike rn. But I sell and buy used bikes probably once a year haha.
Past 4 years: Started with like 200$ used 80s aluminum trek bike. sold it. Upgraded to 250 90s steel bianchi. Sold it. Got into triathlon more. Got a 90s cannondale Tri bike with some upgraded parts 500$. Sold it. Big upgrade 1000$ used 2013 bianchi carbon w carbon wheelset. Sold it. 1100$ got a 2013 specialized shiv w carbon wheelset. Keeping this one for a while for now.
I like this cause I’ve learned to work on and ride all sorts of components and bikes. I also usually come out about even when I sell. And typically upgrade slowly instead of a big payment. Eventually hope to have a newer bike w di2
1980, 1992, 1998 (but went back to the 1992 one), 2021. 1980 bike has ~6.5K mikes on it, 1992 has ~57K miles on it, 1998 has ~4K miles, 2021 has ~18K miles. Once I have a good bike set up well, I’m hesitant to change. Replacing the ‘92 one was largely bc I was afraid it was near or well past its fatigue limit (it is AL). I’m happy I did, though. Love my new one.
Really depends. As I get older and more financial comfortable, the interval decreases. Right now I have 4 bikes. But I prioritize my 160 trail bike and that's going to be the one I buy new and most frequently. My last one I had for 7 years cuz I was poor for a lot of those years. Replaced it in 2020. New model came out and now I'm getting the frame-only of that model and swapping over parts.
My ebike, jumper, and DH bike I all bought used with no immediate plans to replace. Maybe when they get particularly outdated I'll replace them with a newer used model
I currently have 2 road bikes - one I bought in 2014 that’s done something like 15000km and one I bought in 2021 that’s done about 5000km. I don’t see any appeal to buying a bike around the £1k price point - why not buy a nice bike for £3k every 3 years?
Why are you buying such cheap bikes? Usuually when someone "upgrades" the reason is to get a much better bike and they keep moving upwards.
The time to upgrade is when the new bike will allow you to do something the current bike can't. Is the old bike holding you back somehow? or maybe it has mechanical problems that can't be economically addressed?
I would never buy three $1,000 bikes. It is better to buy one bike at 3X that price and keep it. For a road bike the minimum I want is a full carbon frame with 105 components. $1k gets only an aluminum frame and low-end parts.
Spend more on one bike but keep it for much longer
I have to imagine +1000$€£ bikes longevity won't change much as you spend more and more, or even diminish as you get into carbon frames. I'd be hesitant to ride old carbon and wouldn't bat an eye at old bent rusty steel.
I’m not replacing my carbon road bike after a year, it can last longer than that
My 2008 Carbon Trek Domane continues to do me as great as day one and except for a scratch on the underside of the bottom tube, it continues to look great, too.
What's wrong with an aluminium bike if you're not a super competitive rider? The extra weight compared to carbon even works in your favor on long rides as the inertia means you don't have to put as high of an effort all of the time. How much time do you all really spend doing 50, 60 km/h? I've got a very light bike and I'm very light myself but my easiest ride ever was when I was riding with 10kg on my back. Yes, my top speed was a good bit lower, but the bike basically drove itself once I got going. I've not heard of any corroded aluminium bikes either. I've got two, one is roughly 10 years old and the other is on its way to 20. Both frames are like new.
Yes, weight is overrated but no, it doesn’t work that way. Yes, there is inertia but no, it doesn’t give you free energy. The inertia is there because you accelerated that mass before. And constant resistances (rolling, wind) mean you always have to accelerate, even if you don’t feel it. When going uphill, you also accelerate against gravity. Bottom line: A lighter bike always means less energy spent accelerating (all else being equal) which means it’s faster than the heavier bike. The positive “inertia” feeling at hight speed with higher weight (or downhill) is a psychological effect. You can at max get back what you put in prior (in reality, not even that). Where your feeling is correct though is that top speed is where you feel the bike’s weight least of all, i.e. a heavy bike is not slower than a lighter bike once you’ve accelerated it, all else being equal.
I guess that's because aluminium doesn't rust.
There is a number of possible situations where it does in fact corrode.
What? Carbon lasts incomparably longer than any metal alloy. It's stronger, completely immune to thermal expansion (hence doesn't become brittle overtime due to "metal fatigue" and crack out of the blue like alu alloys), completely immune to corrosion, etc. Old metal alloy bikes can crack out of nowhere - carbon ones won't. So it's exactly the opposite of what you said.
As long as it isn't damaged it's totally fine, bent and rusty sounds like damage, wouldn't ride that.
You should use that $$ on a training camp or cycling holiday… improve the engine!
Please buy more high end bikes so I can buy last year’s bike barely used for a massive discount 🤣 I’ve been riding my CAAD 10 for over 10 years (some breaks in cycling in between). Usually new bikes are to fulfill a purpose that ones I currently own can’t.
Haha, I was going to say to OP there’s definitely a subset of people buying new bikes every year since they can (or I guess could, maybe not these days) get a decent chunk of money back from selling a lightly used bike every year. Not saying it’s a financially sound way to do things, but I used to wonder who was spending 10k on a new bike every year when I realized it’s probably like 3-4k a year. For some folks that’s what they like about biking, having the new hotness every year.
This and after you get the bike immediately strip all the sram force off to replace with dura-ace and put your new take off parts on ebay bc I want some hydro brifters for $100
I've bought 3 bikes in the past 20 years.
Same, I got a hard tail mt bike in 2011, and a fat bike in 2018 that get ridden irregularly. I mostly ride my road bike I got in 2010. I’ve worn out a few tires, chains, and a set of sprockets now. It’s still going strong and I’m kinda fat there will be minimal improvement buying a new one too often. I think at 20 years I might get a new one.
I’ve bought 1 bike in the past 100 years ;)
Tf y'all swapping bikes constantly My last bike lasted me 9 years and the only reason I got a new one was because the frame was too small for me.
Consumerism and marketing hits different for some folks lmao
I do not feel guilty about increasing the supply of good quality used bicycles.
Doing the lord's work, thank you
I can't speak for all poors but I appreciate it
When you get to be my age you buy a new bike for every special occasion: bday this year new MTB, Christmas is Fat Tire, Easter is gravel bike time. I am joking...sort of
It took you 9 years to get a correctly sized frame?
Or 9 years to grow out of it?
Not exactly, but I should've gotten a new bike a few years ago already.
Enthusiast subs are heavily biased towards people that are obsessed with their hobby, sometimes to an extreme extent. r/guitar is a great sub but a lot of the people there have massive collections and buy a $1500 guitar on a whim. 95% of the lurkers there probably have 3 guitars they're holding on to.
Ironically it attracts people who are obsessed with spending money rather than their hobby. The better I get at a hobby the less money I spend as I end up optimizing my set ups. This definitely happened to me with guitar where I have everything that I need already and haven't bought anything new in years
The purest expression of this is the watch sub. It's basically a hobby of "who can spend the most on jewelry"
>Ironically it attracts people who are obsessed with spending money rather than their hobby I've been through / started so many hobbies I think my hobby is actually starting a new hobby :/
BUT MARKETING SAID I CAN SAVE 2 WATTS (at 50 km/h on direct headwind without any turbulences) WHEN I BUY THE NEWEST AERO MACHINE!
Well, the only reason I wan't a new mtb is because I want to replace my old one. That one is terribly bad. Skipping gears, loose headset bearings, vad wheel bearings, rim brake, and just a nightmare sometimes
i bought a used bike 9 years ago cause my old got stolen
So you've spent £6000 on bikes and have one <£1000 bike to show for it?
Oooof when you put it like this…it hurts
Carbon Road bikes will last a long time if you keep them maintained and don't crash, mine is a 2013 (\~$3k) and still going strong. Mountain bikes may have a shorter life span depending on amount of crashes and how hard you ride. My alloy frame MTB (\~$1k) barely lasted a year, then I upgraded to a carbon frame (\~$3k) and it's held up for 10 years now. I find spending more on the Frame and keeping them maintained is more cost effective than buying cheaper frames that aren't as strong. No matter what you buy the drive train, tires and brakes will need work to keep them in good shape over time.
Still riding a 2010 Specialized Allez Sport and bought a Diverge for gravel last year. I'll take this thread as permission to buy a new roadie. :d
Sounds you enjoy buying bikes more than you like riding them. lol Not a bad thing. I have a few hobbies like that. You probably won’t put down the miles like a lot of other people in this group. But you will have one of the coolest garages and ownership stories. And for this. I envy you. Think of yourself like the Jay Leno of the cycling world.
Having 7 bikes that are 1000$ new is not really a collection I'd be envious of. But it's not me who has to enjoy that, it's OP.
LOL sadly this is me - tons of not flashy bikes. I have a real N+1 problem but each bike has its own unique use. Nothing to brag about in the entire fleet but I love it none the less.
This is me. I have more $$ than sense.
I know it's not but it sounds like a nice problem to have 😂
About every 5 years for each type of bike.
Although that’s not been true for my gravel bike. I tend to upgrade it instead of buy new. I really really like it though. I don’t road bike, I have one but it lives on the trainer. MTB is about the only that justifies an upgrade for me.
Had my BMC Team Machine (mech Force, originally Ksyriums, later Superteams, replaced everything other than the derailleurs and shifters over that time) for 15 years. New bike (Force AXS, ENVE wheels, etc) bought in February and I hope to keep it for many years. Obviously it’s not easy to come up with the larger sum in one hit but to me one $5k bike > five $1k bikes. I can’t see the point of replacing a basic bike that works fine with another basic bike. You’ve got to obsess the fit all over again and for zero gain. I’d rather throw that annual $1k into wheels, a better group, carbon bars and stem, a good saddle, a pro fit, a power meter and HRM etc etc. which would improve your bike, your fitness, your enjoyment. Otherwise you’re just spending money to stay in exactly the same place.
I started riding in '04.. bought a Felt F70 that year. I rode that bike literally every single day for over 2 years, rain or shine. No ride was shorter than 5 miles... I just had that fire in me...but I burned out the BB, destroyed the wheels, and had a crack in the frame at that point. I knew nothing about bike maintenance or that they wouldn't last through all that punishment. I bought my next bike in 2007 (first carbon bike, a Scott Cr1)...and then my latest bike in 2020, a Giant Defy Adv.. I also had a TT bike (Felt B2) but I rarely used it so it doesn't count...I sold it a year after buying it. I suspect I'll keep this current bike another 5 years, and that's because I take really good care of it and have upgraded a lot of it (Full Ultegra, 3d printed saddle, carbon wheels). It still looks brand new, i wash and wax it every other week. Probably upgrade the drivetrain one time to Di2 Ultegra (currently running mechanical Ultegra) and maybe get one more new wheelset. After that, I'd probably be hunting for a 'final' nice bike that has some of the newer gizmos/tech...but depends on what is standard by then.
Final, lol
the bicycle industry is really good at marketing obsolescence. Its a shame that the values of 12 year old bikes have plummeted due to lack of disc brakes, electronic gears and what not. that being said, the acceptance of wider tires and tire clearance has been a game changer. I have an older bike with a max clearance of 25mm that i love, but after riding disc brake bikes with 32mm and seeing the improvement in comfort with zero impact on speed, I dont think I can go back.
have been averaging 1 bike a year for the last 6 years, this year will be the first year i haven't bought a bike
Your figures sound very similar 🤣
4 road bikes, a gravel bike and a MTB..first road bike became a frame only and another is a permanent turbo bike
There is a lot of new releases so you can go full on f them.
I'd say every 2 and a half to 14 years..
If it ain't broken, I don't replace it.
20 years ago when bikes were affordable, every couple years. (for context, my carbon fiber full suspension disc brake shimano XT MTB race bike, near top of the line, was $2600 in 2002) I also had 5 bikes back then: \* hardtail MTB \* full sus MTB \* bmx/dirt jump \* freeride \* road Now that bikes are $8k+? basically not unless something breaks. I also only have 2 bikes now. \* road \* hardtail MTB All 5 bikes I had in the early 2000's combined cost less than just my current road bike. I'd also say it might depend on what kind of bike your talking about. MTB has completely changed in the last 15 yrs. Like not even comparable. Slacker geometry, muuuch better suspension, 29" wheels up from 26". Road likes to pretend things have changed, but they haven't evolved that much. Disc brakes, if you want them, and wider tire clearance is about all that's notable. More aero but heavier, but debatable how much faster that really makes you real-world unless you are racing, so worth upgrading? meh. Modern aero wheelset on a slightly older frame would be just as good IMO. (some aero wheels on a 10 yr old supersix evo himod and you have a killer bike)
I'm not a mountain biker, so I can't speak to that comparison, but $2600 is like $4500 in Today's $. In the US that can still get you a very high quality road bike. Agree though that bikes are becoming too expensive for features that the average person doesn't really need!
As infrequently as possible.
My road bike is 12 years old. Current drive train has around 11-12k on it. The frame is the only original thing on it. As for the yearly cycle, try riding through the winter.
I only buy a new bike when I think there is enough new tech that I'd enjoy. My last bike had rim brakes, cable shifting, used 23mm tires with tubes, and was 11 speed. My new one can accommodate 30mm+ tires, uses tubeless tires, wireless shifting, 12 speed, and disc brakes. I don't think any one of those would have made me switch, but all of them combined have made riding so much more enjoyable. Even though it's a few years old, there isn't anything on the market that would make me want to switch. Sure, you can find a slightly lighter set up, maybe it's a touch more aero, etc., but it will be too similar to what I have in terms of actually riding it. My advice, don't get suckered into the latest marketing and only part with your money when you think what's out there will make your life better. 28mm tubeless tires, wireless shifting, and 12 speed sram with a ratio closer to 1:1 has made a huge impact on how I ride and I couldn't be happier.
I've been of the "buy once, cry once" mindset, and got the best road bike that i could afford. i'm very happy with it and as things wear i just upgrade them (if it makes sense). i'll keep it until i outgrow it, in either size or skill level. case in point, my first dirtjumper was low end and after a couple seasons i outgrew the quality of the components and built a new one.
From personal experience having ADHD, novelty is a huge factor for finding motivation to ride. The conclusion that I've come to over the past few years, though, is that the amount of novelty rarely correlates with the amount of money spent. Ideas of things to play around with to keep the novelty factor high before you drop $1k on a completely new bike: * Get yourself a used BMX for $100 * If you don't already have one, it can be fun to play around at the skatepark on occasion * Try experimenting with crank length * Cruz cranks off AliExpress are only \~$30 and you can get any length you want from \~120mm on up * Try out different suspension stems * On my rigid bike my favorite so far is a Meroca stem that runs about $40 * Try oval chainrings * Try different types of grips or grip tape * Try different gloves * Try some guerilla landscaping * Basically my own spin on "tactical urbanism" -- bring a pair of hand pruners on rides and start going after stuff like trees that are hanging too low over bike paths or in the way of sight lines for cars to be able to spot cyclists
My first years in cycling I swapped a lot, but I now have two bikes (gravel and mtb) that I'm happy with and have very little I'd like to change. I plan on keeping these bikes for a while!
Used to be 1 or more bikes per year (mtb and road). Then I realized I was only buying into marketing bs, and trying to sell used bikes to fund new bikes was more hassle than it was worth. I'm now at a point where I haven't bought a new mtb since 2015 and bought a used gravel bike in 2022. I enjoy maintaining these 2 bikes and really making them mine far more than I enjoyed constantly new bike shopping.
I like getting new bikes as well. Everytime im getting a new one, i sell an old(er) one, so my number of bikes doesnt go too high. in the last 10 years i had about 12 bikes - atm i have 4 ...
Almost never. Last one was a new Colnago frame in 1985. Everything else was used/vintage.
I don’t buy bikes , bikes buy me 😌
Hopefully never again lol. Joking aside I could see myself upgrading to di2, but other then that I’m just a dude riding and my current bike gets me there quick enough. I have enjoyed the small upgrades like, wheels, tires, cockpit, etc
In the past 10 years or so I've bought a MTB, a touring bike & a road bike. All for different purposes. Had the road bike now for about 6 years. Although I have been eyeing up other bikes I doubt I'll replace it until either myself or the bike are well and truly broken. It's still going strong 32k miles in.
After each ride.
I've never bought a new bike. I always start with a frame and build it up how I like. Last one was 15 years ago.
Only when I need something new (eg a couple of years ago I bought a gravel bike to use on a trip. I didn't have one), I find a good deal on something that would improve my riding experience (eg a friend was upgrading his 2 year old mountain bike, and I was riding a 13 year old mountain bike at the time), or my bike just needs to be replaced (eg when I was hit by a car). Buying a new bike every year is certainly not necessary, even if you raced as a relatively high level amateur. (Pro's ride what they're given). But as long as you sell your the ones you're replacing, it's not \*that\* expensive. It's analogous to wanting to drive a new car every 3 years. A lot of people do that without thinking twice. I haven't priced it, but I'd expect a new bike habit is cheaper than a new car habit.
You mean they aren’t disposable??
Buying second hand so I can afford a new one every 3 years or so.
Every 50 years or so... ...seriously, I still have my 1972 Kessels "Eddy Merckx", and it has served me well. Good enough for Eddy, good enough for me...
One bike a year so far - between $6k-$10k. I have a problem! Next year might be different.
Keep doing this. Because if you ride a bike now for, let’s say five years, and save up the money to invest it in one bike it will undoubtedly result in a “what have I been doing all these years” feeling. Not saying you’ll be making huge progress all the sudden, but the feeling of accelerating fast and having that extra edge on a climb or smooth shifting, it definitely sparks joy
I’ve been cycling for 14 years and in that time I’ve owned 14 bikes: Road: 5, Track: 2, Cyclocross: 5, Mountain: 2 Only one of which was bought new. Most expensive was ~$2400. Currently only own 1.
2021 - first bike. - specialized allez - sora - new 2021 - 1993 Miyata 714 - used 2022 - wife’s 2020 specialized roubaix - used 2022 - Kilo TT - used 2023 - ‘88 centurion Ironman - used, soma rush - built from frame (replaced kilo), 2015 caad 10 (replaced allez) - used 2024 - 94 hard rock for wife, 93 trek 970, Miyata 1000 It’s a lot I guess but the old bikes were relatively cheap and fun projects (all < $200 except the Miyata 1000). My “main” bikes by mileage are the newer road bikes and fixies
I typically buy a new bike every 3-5 years to keep up with advancements in technology and design. It's a good interval for upgrading to newer features and making sure I have a reliable bike for recreational rides.
I rode my CX bike for commuting/road/gravel for a decade, but when I replaced it I bought a road bike and a gravel bike in the same year. I rode my MTB for 6 years before upgrading, reverted the old MTB back to a rigid singlespeed like it was when I bought it, new MTB is a 12 speed full sus. My around town bike and fat bike are both 8+ years old with no intention of replacing them anytime soon. The around town bike an early 90's rigid steel 26er, but I built new wheels for it.
Same road bike for 24 years - may buy a new one this fall, bike last forever.
Bought my roadbike in 2013. It still rides perfectly fine. Imo it's a waste and doesn't make sense to buy a new bike every year.
The shortest was 4 years for my gravel bike. I really wanted more tire clearance, narrower bars, and a more responsive ride. The longest was 12 years for my TT bike. Position and fit was perfect, but eventually the frame had so many miles and scratches/gouges on it that I started to worry about it's integrity. And I got tired of trying to slow down deep carbon wheels with a center pull front brake. Disc brakes on a TT bike is so nice. I'm currently at 6 years for my high end road bike with no plans to replace anytime soon (and it was 2 years old when I got it). And 4 years for my MTB, also no plans to replace anytime soon. The bike most likely to get replaced next is my gravel. These bikes are evolving rapidly and this is where a lot of the innovation/improvement is happening.
It is super silly to buy a new $1k bike every year. At least used at $1k you could be getting something cool and it is a bit of a hunt to find a good deal. Plus you can sell it around the same price a year later. What you are doing is just wasteful IMO except in the case like some people I know who got into totally different types of cycling as they got more into the sport and thus needed a completely different type of bike. I just can't imagine what you are getting that is cool for a road bike at the same price point each year. It's like upgrading your phone every year, there is no measurable difference. As for me, only my first bike I bought new, a gravel bike which was the gateway to road cycling. I went through a buying, upgrading, and reselling a few used bikes over the past three years but now don't plan on getting another bike for the foreseeable future, as I've figured out what I want in bikes and have them.
I got a used bike in 2014. Just now getting ready to buy a new bike
1991 - Kona Fire Mountain 2008 - Kona Caldera 2024 - Giant Trance 29-1 (MY 2022) So every 16-17 years. I'll post my next purchase in 2040.
Every 10,000 miles. 👍🏿
I do with my bikes like I do with my cars. Ride them until they completely break down (rip my lovely 97' maxima).
I started with a Trek mountain bike. Once I got strong, I kept breaking the spokes. Then I found a used Motobecane Fantom CX cyclocross. It works for me all the time so I rebuild it when needed. I bought mine for $650 and 10 years of maintenance has been $2,000. Money well invested. It is aluminum, but if I want to lose 10 lbs of riding weight I stop eating pasta.
Everytime the youtubers and r/MTB inhabitants tell me that 2 year old geometry is literally the devil
I’ve bought 3 over as many years. Bought a mountain bike, sold it, bought gravel bike and kept it. Bought a mountain bike for the girlfriend. Waffling over getting an e mountain bike for winter.
I only buy a new one if the old one breaks and ist not repairable. My bike is pretty expensive tho
Anytime I’m sad
I have owned my current bike for 4 years now. I don't plan on buying a new one unless this one gets totaled or becomes unsafe to ride.
It's your life. If it makes you happy, you can afford it and it isn't taking away from you putting food on the table or a roof over your head then go for it.
Sounds like you're the perfect customer for The Pro's Closet
I have ridden the same bike for 9 years and will probably upgrade within the year to get a better fitting bike, and ride that one for another decade as well. If I’m honest, part of it is I love blowing by people on new fancy bikes, I’m a little competitive and there’s a feeling I’m not proud of but still kinda good feeling about “your carbon fiber water bottle cage can’t beat my beefy quads.” Edit: I do want be clear, it sounds like you get a lot of joy from a new bike and I’m totally for that. I have my things that I too love that “new new” experience of. It just feels good. Do you thing, love the hobby, it sounds like that aspect might be wearing off somewhere in the back of your head, but until then dude, enjoy it, new bikes are fun as hell.
New bike? Never. Many old(ish bikes)? Often.
I am still using my nearly 30 year old Kona mountain bike. Though next year I will buy new one, if I still continue to use it as much as this year. So I am completely at the other end of the spectrum. One bike for half my life.
once per century.
Every weekend?
Whenever I want, I sell my old ones to finance the new one.
The key is to have so many bikes that your wife doesn’t notice when you get rid of one and add another. I get a new one about every year. It brings me joy, just like someone that collects cars. I have nine at the moment: 1. Ultimate CFR (ultralight climber) 2. Focus Izalco (race bike) 3. Ultimate CF SLX (older bike, converted it to my endurance bike) 4. Ridley Helium rim brake (for travel) 5. Co-op ARD (winter bike) 6. Cervelo Aspero (gravel) 7. Scott Scale (hardtail XC) 8. Canyon Spectral (downhill) 9. Canyon Roadlite (for pulling kids trailer) Thinking of adding a Scott Addict so I can have a race geometry but still fit 35mm tires for BWR California.
My road bike (Specialized Roubaix) is 20 years old and is still fine. I don't road ride much except early season. My mountain bike (Pivot Trail 429) is 4 years old and is still holding up well. I figure I'll get 2 more seasons out of it at least. My town bike/commuter (1971 Pugot built as a fixie) is 53 years old like me. No original components. :)
Just bought a new one this year and the one I was riding previously I bought 13/14 years ago
I have two bikes and don't plan to buy another. One is a 22 pound LBS special. Single front gear, 2-speed internal Sturmey Archer S2C geared to 1:1 and 1.33:1, rear coaster brake, front rim brake. This one is my favorite to ride, but obviously only around town. Edit: it cost me $750 new in Ventura, California from the LBS who built it, because the customer didn't want it any more and they couldn't find anyone else who wanted it. The second is a Jamis Ventura (ironic, right?) that I bought used but in new condition from Gearin' Up Bicycles in Washington DC for $450. It does everything I needed it to do for multiple Shenandoah rides in the 50- to 95-mile range.
About once a decade for brand new. Used bargain bikes, like vintage rigid steel mountain bikes, 1 to 3 per year, often just to strip parts and then donate frame set to local bike coop.
19 years from my first decent bike to my current bike.
Last bike was 2023. Before that was 2008.
Every 20 years lol
Since 2004 I’ve bought 5 bikes. 2 (all)road bikes (2004 and 2023) MTB in 2008 and city in 2009 and a second hand trekking/travel bike 2022. City bike I will get rid of. Trekking bike I will likely give to my son in the coming few years when he’s outgrown his current bike. That one will be replaced by something similar but more modern. Other than that I’m not planning on any other bikes for the coming 10-15 years. Unless I win the lottery that is…
i buy a quality bike for a stoopid good price ride it for a bit have some fun then flip it so probably like once every month 😅. i do have 2 personal bikes i keep for myself tho.
I have a road bike I bought in 2014, and last year I bought a used carbon MTB 29'er from 2014, both perform very well. Not a huge material difference from this to the latest gen, Hydralic disc, 29er, air forks, carbon frame, 2x drivetrain, all for $1000CAD, Can't beat the deal.
One used bike every 15 years.
I think of mtb as a 36 month lease or like a downhill season pass vs any kind of thing of sentimental value. Tires chains and shock services in off season, always have a great bike to ride when need it and then sell and roll whatever is left into new one for next three seasons.
7 years on since my carbon road bike. Zero plan on changing. Eyeing switching up the commuting bike that's 10 years old
I have two 30-year-old bikes, one 10-year old bike, and one 3-year old bike. Uh, oh. I’m seeing a progression.
I bought my road bike in 2018 and have no reason to buy a new one unless I want a gravel bike
I have have my road and track bikes for 12 years, got a new MTB 6 years ago, getting the itch for gravel/touring these days. There are others that have come and gone, my average bike buys were more frequent 12-15 years ago, but I was just running thru entry level bikes. Get something you really like and spend time/money fine tuning it. Do you keep your old bikes? How many do you have?
Question is do you even like to drink?
On average I can ride a frame for approx 15-20 years before the frame starts to fail. Obviously this number drops drastically if/when my bike gets stolen which has happened more than once.
This year I replaced my old bike that I bought used in 2012
My last road bike has been going a little over 10 years and cost about £4k. It's still in use on the turbo. My current road bike is a little more expensive and I hope/intend it'll last me as long. I also have a £2k cargo bike, at 7yo, and a £1.5k fat bike that's only 4yo. Neither of which are looking in any danger of wearing out any time soon.
I buy used bikes. I can't justify a fancy new one. I have told myself I will buy a brand spanker when I hit all my fitness goals, though.
have had the same frame for 5+ years, but i do upgrade components from time to time.
Spring 2012: Hardtail. First adult bike! ($1,000) Summer 2012: Fixed gear. ($700) Winter 2013: Cyclocross. ($1,200) n=3 over 12 years of riding. It's 2024 and I ride the same whips. I love the new adventures and new friends each one has brought into my life. My next bikes will probably be a full-suspension (Kona Hei Hei, Evil Following, or Pivot Shadowcat) or a more relaxed steel road bike (Ritchey Montebello, All-City Spacehorse)
Infrequent. I purchased one this year. Before that, it was 14 years ago.
Every 4 yr
15 years ago I inherited My dad's carbon Trek bike, it sat in the garage until last year and it it rides great. So not often but probably soon!
Bought my first one (starter road bike) in 2012 and got clip on aero bars soon after. Bought a dedicated tri bike in 2018. My tri bike is still good, but I’d like to get a new road bike. It’s just… well loved and is pretty rusted on the bolts, so it’s my trainer-only bike (I live close to the ocean in Hawaii. The salt air hits hard.). Unfortunately, I’m not in a financial position to do that now. I’m hoping in the next two years or so.
Have you tried upgrading instead? Might give you some of the excitement with less of the cost (as long as you don't get too carried away).
Mountain 1997, 2005, 2016 (fatbike, not replacement) Road: 1999, 2017 I still have them all, except the 1997. It was mechanically shot, so I gave it to a friend who broke his frame, and he rebuilt it. Still gets occasional use. If you know you’re going to use it, just buy a high-end bike. Maintain it until the outdated technology makes it the wrong tool for group rides.
New? Once in my life. I rode a used mountain bike for over 22 years before then.
Since 2013 I've bought four bikes and sold one (the eldest) I'm looking to sell another soon. There is no shame in trading bikes or accumulating them just so long as you have room. However if you are constantly buying your bikes new then you have succumbed to marketing IMHO. Used bikes rock. My newest bike is my oldest bike yet
Invest into an indoor trainer. This kept me motivated during the winterdays and it's the first time I've actually made progress in this period. Looked the same for me before... March till October cycling, November to February drinking and gaming.
I bought a very nice cannondale about 15 years ago. Its gone through several rebuilds, a new frame (warranty) and a few drive lines since then. Its still my GOAT even though ive got a shed full of bikes. Life has moved on and it dont have cash to spend frivolously anymore, so I figure its gonna my whip for another 10-15 years at least. Glad I picked a good one.
I spent £50 on my first bike, rode it for a summer got rid. Then waited a few years bought a trek hybrid for £450 50% off almost. I don’t plan to sell this bike ever, I think if I bought a bike that was like a carerra I probably would want to upgrade every year but I’m super happy with my current one. Only upgrade I could think of is one of those madones but Jesus would need like 50k saved before I splashed on that
I own a few bikes. The bike I’ve owned the longest is a 2012 Trek Sawyer which I bought on 2013. I’ll go periods where I won’t buy a bike for a couple years, but then I’ll sell/buy multiple bikes in 1 year. I’m in one of those years… The second most tenured bike in my stable was a 2019 Surly Lowside bought in 2019, but I’m in the process of getting it ready to sell to fund a new DJ bike. I just sold my 2020 Remedy to fund a new Slash which I will probably keep for 3-4 years. I might actually walk away with enough for the remedy to also pick up a hardtail frame this year. I’ve turned my e-bikes at the end of each season for the last 4 years and will probably sell the one I bought in the spring once riding season ends this year. And, I haven’t ridden a road/gravel bike in about 5 years, finally sold my road bike last year, but I’ve got the itch for another one though that will likely need to wait till next year unless I come out ahead on selling the ebike. TLDR: In 30 years I’ve probably purchased 35 bikes or frames.
I’ve been into riding since 2018. I have bought 5 bikes during that time. Maybe will get another in a couple of years.
My oldest bike is about ten years older than me. My "best" bike is a top of the line felt f-35 from 2006. It's pretty even with my 2005 principia. I usually don't buy new bikes. I buy good value used bikes and I use quality parts to improve them if necessary. My newest bike is a specialized enduro comp from 2014. Its a ridiculiusly good enduro bike and it cost me 200$ in 2022. I bought that because I wanted a mtb.
about every 5 years or so for fun.
More than i need to but less than I'd like.
Not often enough..
11 years but at this point i think only the frame and its spirit remains original
2014 - Specialized Crux E5 Sora The Crux I still have and it will probably find a new owner as soon as one turns up. Now - Cervelo Caledonia with Rival eTap AXS. Who knows when the next one will be. Probably some time in 2030 or I might just start upgrading the Cervelo. It would be nice to get a MTB some time.
I’ve been on the same hardtail for 10 years until may, didn’t even want a new bike because too expensive. A month later I got a new gravel bike for 6 times the amount of my hardtail and love it Now I’m drafting up a fully custom titanium rebuild of said gravel bike with high end components that I’m itching to pull the trigger on. Considering the ridiculous price and being completely broke right now I’m nowhere near affording it but I’m set on making it happen within the next year or two, might go more frugal for the next year and then get a loan for the rest once my car is paid off (this is a stupid idea but man). At least if it’s a “small” loan I could sell my current gravel for a decent amount afterwards to clear a big chunk at once I guess After that I don’t really have anywhere else to go since I don’t feel any desire to ride anything other than gravel (road is boring and I never used my hardtail “properly” because I’m too much of a bitch for downhill or trails, we also don’t have any around)
Whenever it needs washing.
My TT bike is a 2009 and road bike is a 2015. I have done component upgrades and have kept them maintained. Both are great bikes so no need for something new.
Never change a out bike. Just add another.
I got a peloton for the off months and actually really enjoy it for keeping the motor strong and if you want a new bike every year and can afford it; by all means do it. I keep a bike for 2-3 years and then move on. Year one is mostly me dialing it in the way I want it to be, year two is beating it to death because it suits me so well and year three is starting to repair it because it is getting clapped. You do you OP.
Been cycling daily since 2010. I've only bought one bike.
Mine is from 2004, so soon? Maybe,
Buy a goodun and keep it a long time. Mines a Cervelo R3 2015 and it's still a far better bike than I'll ever need. Do like to splurg on good kit and keep it well serviced.
3 bikes since 1995.
I get new bikes to me. I'm always rolling over components and frames, at least for road bikes. When i was mountain biking, I got a new bike every couple of years. I thought of it like skiing, every year you needed new gear and a seasons pass.
First 2 years ago, then a year ago as it didn’t suit my needs, then again this year because the previous one was stolen. Not great.
My MTB is from 2009 and still awesome, and my current Road bike from 2023. I sold the other entry level road bike after 2 years, and now I ride what I like. And I’ll intend to ride it for years.
Buy? Bikes are like umbrellas... https://www.reddit.com/r/seinfeldgifs/comments/okta2j/who_buys_an_umbrella_anyway/
Enjoy cycling the way you want to. Everyone is different. I buy, fix, and sell bikes all the time. I've had at least 20 bikes in 16 years and am almost net positive $ even with 7 bikes in the stable.
When something needs replaced and the only parts available are listed as "classic" or "vintage". Used to be when I went into a bike shop and they would say things like "Nobody carries those anymore," but I stopped going to bike shops.
I like to build bike more than to ride them. So I have a lot of bikes 😅. (I buy the carbon frames and wheels in China, and Shimano 105/Tiagra Groupset on discount in Europe and build them at my place, I am still looking for a aero endurance bike like Pinarello X Series).
I expect the bike I bought about five years ago (a 1960s raleigh sports limited edition) to last the rest of my life, unless it's destroyed by an automobile. Before that I'd bought two bikes, both used - another vintage Raleigh which was stolen, and a very heavy modern Schwinn which I still have but is too heavy for commuter use. I hope to live to 80, so that's about once every 26 years.
Every couple years, but I'm not replacing bikes. My primary road bike is ~6 years old with about 30,000 miles (18k outdoor, 12k equivalent indoor) on it. Bought a mountain bike 3 years ago, broke it, got it warrantied, and got a new one last year. Bought a TT bike this year. Probably won't replace anything for a couple more years. May get a gravel bike. Been eyeballing an R5-CX for that.
If your current bike works fine and you don't have a pressing reason to change, consider sticking with it for now. Save the excitement of a new bike for when you truly need or want one.
when the tube punctures
I’ve bought more than one per year since I got into road biking. Having a rest now for a while….my next one will be a Colnago I’m hoping so might need to save up
well, three in the last two years, but previous to that the newest was 4 years ago. So 1 a year I guess.
When my current one starts becoming unusable or I move and can't take my cycle
Bought the current bike 20 years ago, previous bike around 16 before that.
Interesting question. So far in 4 years of cycling I've tried my way to finding a road bike that suits my needs and also a MTB. The road bike I bought second hand has been great, zero complaints. As for the MTB i first tried a HT, then a trail bike and finally settled on a XC-bike. So I guess 4 bikes in 4 years, so far. I would upgrade rosd bike again if I didn't have a bunch of old injuries holding me back. No point in going to the extreme withbiles and power meters if I can't go ham.
Seven times so far in this life. Two of them because the previous vine got stolen
I’m 53 and I’ve bought three bikes over the years.
I started cycling in 2020, and bought one bike, then bought a second one , because the gearing and fit suited me better, this was in 2023, but I sold the first one. So i have only one. I think having a back up bike isn't bad, but one bike for each riding style.. i.e hybrid /road for pavement, mountain for mountain biking etcc..is what it should be. Having multiple , especially more than 2, for the same type of bike, seems kind of silly and waste of resources.
Still on the first "adult" bike I got more than 10 years ago. Currently I'm itching to get a gravel bike and demote the old one to "expendable every-day bike". Otoh, I see no reason to get rid of a bike as long as you want to keep that "style" of bike - parts can always be fixed or exchanged, frames don't wear out very quickly.
If you mean actually new new. Never had been, and probably never will. I shop used (Craigslist, fb marketplace etc). Usually when I buy a bike I’m riding it for at least half a decade…….if not more. I bought an old 90s rigid Trek MTB for $80 in 2012. After riding in for over a decade, in 2024, I got a buddy that helped me converted to electric—-so dropped another $1,200 on it. That old trek is not for sale. I mean it probably is, if you’re dumb enough to offer me $5k. My point being, don’t chase after the newest technology. Chase after how fun you can have, even riding a “crappy” bike. r/Xbiking
I’m just going through buying a new bike. I paid AUD$10K in 2009 for a top level bike and am still riding it while I wait for the new one to arrive. I am usually pretty frugal when it comes to spending but I reasoned there would be less spend over 15 years with a top level bike than a low end. That seems to have been shown to be correct. This time I’m going second tier drivetrain, top quality wheels, and, at 55, this will be the second last bike I buy. If you are really getting into it I recommend outplaying the money and keep the bike for 15 years.
As often as possible without my wife murdering me.
I bought two bikes in the early 2000’s, one used. I gave my track bike away last summer in a trade with a friend, and converted my old road bike to a fixie. I bought two geared bikes last year, one new/stock road bike and the other a gravel frame-up DIY build. I’d love more bikes but I’m not planning on buying any more for a good while. I do have a frame that was gifted to me that I’d like to build up. I try to ride my bikes forever. I enjoy doing my own building/maintenance and do free bike clinics / cookouts in my back yard for my friends. I get my fix by fixing up and customizing their bikes.
I got an old cruiser for commuting 4 years ago in high school through an earn a bike program. I volunteered at a farm for it. Used it for two years but it was rusty and very very old, like from the 70s old, so I got a hybrid. It’s been two years and I still use it almost daily to commute. I just recently bought my first road bike because I began to max out the resistance on my hybrid and take it for long rides. I live in Wisconsin. Blizzards can continue to mid April and it often starts snowing in October, so I’m considering buying a fat bike this winter. Beyond that I feel like I’ll be pretty set… just gotta keep up with maintenance and bikes can last you a long time. Don’t know why you’d want to buy bikes every year lol. I wish I didn’t have to buy these bikes but it’s an investment. It’s so much money lol, but I justify it because it’s still less than a car.
Never just fix upp my current bike. Not that rich to get a new bike like it is the newest phone and not even that is impirtsnt to me. If the bike rides great why getting a new one.
Personally, I've only owned two road bikes in the 5. Years that I've been riding. One was a used Allez that I loved and got me into the sport. I only sold it when I wanted to go from alluminum to carbon and get something with disc breaks and a better groupset because I was getting a bit more serious. I got a Scott Solice, which was also used, but it was carbon and has a much nicer Ultegra mechanical groupset. I plan on having this bike for quite a while, although I might put a set of carbon wheels on it if I find a good deal. That being said, I do want to buy a used Gravel bike eventually, but that will be an addition, not a replacement.
I've had my trusty low price trail bike for 8 years and counting! I look after it, it's strong and had no problems with it so far (apart from small component changes). I am getting a bit more serious about cycling and am go out on my bike pretty much every day, so I am looking to upgrade to a higher spec gravel bike. Will definitely still keep the old trail bike for muddy winter rides or more off-road ones.
Every 2-3 years but I do 12k miles/year or more.
Only when it gets totaled by a car or stolen. I'm on bike number 3 (as an adult) and I've had it about 10 years. I am saving up for an e-bike, but I still plan to use the current bike.
I have one bike rn. But I sell and buy used bikes probably once a year haha. Past 4 years: Started with like 200$ used 80s aluminum trek bike. sold it. Upgraded to 250 90s steel bianchi. Sold it. Got into triathlon more. Got a 90s cannondale Tri bike with some upgraded parts 500$. Sold it. Big upgrade 1000$ used 2013 bianchi carbon w carbon wheelset. Sold it. 1100$ got a 2013 specialized shiv w carbon wheelset. Keeping this one for a while for now. I like this cause I’ve learned to work on and ride all sorts of components and bikes. I also usually come out about even when I sell. And typically upgrade slowly instead of a big payment. Eventually hope to have a newer bike w di2
I don't buy new bikes, I build them from zero. When? When I get bored of current one. Sometimes year, sometimes half
1000£ every year? Just save and buy yourself a war machine.
1980, 1992, 1998 (but went back to the 1992 one), 2021. 1980 bike has ~6.5K mikes on it, 1992 has ~57K miles on it, 1998 has ~4K miles, 2021 has ~18K miles. Once I have a good bike set up well, I’m hesitant to change. Replacing the ‘92 one was largely bc I was afraid it was near or well past its fatigue limit (it is AL). I’m happy I did, though. Love my new one.
Really depends. As I get older and more financial comfortable, the interval decreases. Right now I have 4 bikes. But I prioritize my 160 trail bike and that's going to be the one I buy new and most frequently. My last one I had for 7 years cuz I was poor for a lot of those years. Replaced it in 2020. New model came out and now I'm getting the frame-only of that model and swapping over parts. My ebike, jumper, and DH bike I all bought used with no immediate plans to replace. Maybe when they get particularly outdated I'll replace them with a newer used model
I bought one bike about eight years ago and haven't ever needed another!
I currently have 2 road bikes - one I bought in 2014 that’s done something like 15000km and one I bought in 2021 that’s done about 5000km. I don’t see any appeal to buying a bike around the £1k price point - why not buy a nice bike for £3k every 3 years?
Why are you buying such cheap bikes? Usuually when someone "upgrades" the reason is to get a much better bike and they keep moving upwards. The time to upgrade is when the new bike will allow you to do something the current bike can't. Is the old bike holding you back somehow? or maybe it has mechanical problems that can't be economically addressed? I would never buy three $1,000 bikes. It is better to buy one bike at 3X that price and keep it. For a road bike the minimum I want is a full carbon frame with 105 components. $1k gets only an aluminum frame and low-end parts.