starter bikes (for an adult)

[Gadro]

£300 aint much for a bike. If he's thinking about getting into cycling then 2nd hand is simply the way to go.

You'll get a much higher spec frame and more importantly components. If he catches the bug and wants to really go for it and splash out on a higher end model then that 2nd hand ride will have already lost most of it's money and he will probably be able to sell it for what he paid.

Take a look on eBay as the winter is fast approaching and a lot of 'sunshine' riders will be getting rid of their newly purchased rides as a failed experiment.

He can use this bike over the winter and simply sell it again in the spring, probably for a profit, as when the sun starts shining the next generation of 'born again cyclists' re-appear

I'd go for a Specialized FSR, lot's about and a decent spec. Got one myself as my regular ride

 

[velomaniac]

If new is a must, Decathlon are good yes but also Edinburgh Bicycle are great for VFM with their Revolution range, the bottom range Specialized Hardrocks are also pretty good VFM. I know Halfords for many is a bad thing but their Carrera bikes are way better than they used to be and are also good value.