I want a Computrainer (this fact is not up for discussion). Should I buy a new one for $1474 or hold out for a used one?
Does anyone know what the warranty/guarantee is on a Computrainer? I emailed Racermate over a week ago about their policy on this and have not received a reply.
Buy a new one, and buy the LAB model.
It depends on if you want the latest greatest out there. I bought mine new ~5-6 years ago (so not the latest greatest by current standards), and have not had any warranty issues with it. Been riding it semi-frequently during the whole time, and quite intensively since my accident on Feb 28 (120+ miles/week). So, IMO, if you can get one at a good price that has not been used to much and is only a couple of years old, I’d get that one. OTOH, if $s are no object, there’s no reason to not get the latest-greatest with the associated warranty.
We have a 4 year old computrainer that I bought used and a new one that I bought a year ago. The trainer stand set ups are virtually identical. The old one had a problem with the receiver at one point and computrainer replaced it for $50 (normally $350) even though it was way outside of the warranty. They seem to last forever and computrainer has excellent customer service. Actually the reason I bought the second one new is because I had such a great experience fixing the old one that I felt like I owed them. That said, if you can find a good used one from a trusted source you shouldn’t have any problems.
My new one came with a one year warranty (for original purchaser) on the electronic components and lifetime warranty on the trainer stand.
I’ve had mine since 2000. No problems once the Din cord went out. I wasn’t sure what was wrong sent it in for repair. It cost about $95 & thy rechecked everything & it was a fast turn around as well. The software for the 3D version has had several upgrades & you want to be sure to download the most current version. Also for ~$35 I think you can upgrade to the most current controller chip. You might see what the chip version is for a used unit you look at.
barb
keep an eye out on the classifieds, look for a lab model around 1000.00 is a good deal.
I got my CT new even though there where used ones for cheaper. I just won’t buy electronics, computer stuff used as you never know and I would rather have the warranty and peace of mind.
ps …had my ct for almost 4 years now with no problems
buy new. If you don’t like it sell it, they hold their value quite well. PM me I might be able to get you a better deal.
When I bought mine, the used price was close enough to justify new to me.
I try to buy used bike stuff whenever possible, but I bought my CT new. Unless I knew the seller, I’d be worried about water damage (these things are often used in basements, garages, etc) abuse, neglect, etc.
I got a used lab one for 800 dollars. I’ve had it about 5 years. No problems. I had the advantage of buying it from a former RacerMate employee.