Motobecane Messenger

Price Paid:  $349.00 at Bikesdirect.com

Model Year:
2007

Favorite Ride:
Motobecane Messenger

Bike Setup:
I've still got stock everything on the bike, and it rides fine. The 16-tooth cog might be the first thing to go, as well as the seat and bar tape. Maybe I'll buy a Cateye for it, as my old Cannondale cyclometer is pretty buggy these days.

Summary:
I'm in love with this bike. The orange color and the solid build got me from the start, but it's also very, very fast up and down hills.

Strengths:
Strong wheelset, 48T Truvativ crankset that works perfectly on steep climbs, quick, free shipping (3 days), strong customer support, solid price, solid components.

Weaknesses:
Buying a bike sight-unseen is scary. Putting it together was a good challenge, but might deter most people from buying from BD.

Similar Products Used:
Vintage Peugeot steel, 1983, updated and all original parts replaced. '08 Trek 1.2, Sora components and junky aluminum.

Price Paid:  $349.00 at BikesDirect

Model Year:
2007

Favorite Ride:
Wherever

Summary:
overall this has been a good bike for what it is. Reliable and fun to ride. It did however need a few changes. I changed the brake levers to a Shimano product just because the ones it came with were junk. The rims did need to be trued but no big deal. And the tires. Well they are junk. Like rubber coated Kleenex. I swapped them for a set of Conti Ultra Races and this thing rides great. If you buy it direct professional assembly is recommended. But all in all it is a great bike for a great price just dont plan to take it out of the box and ride it.

Strengths:
Good bike at a great price and my wife loves it.

Weaknesses:
None

Similar Products Used:
SE Lager.
Specialized Langster