New Bike!!

[cyclingnewbie]

Well, I did it! I pick up a brand new Trek 1500 on Friday!! My first choice after my first round of bike shopping was the Trek 1200, but they didn't have my size in stock. Since then, I decided I wanted the Shimano 105 components, which bumped me up to the 1500 in the Trek. The 1500 in stock in my size happened to have an Ultegra rear derailleur (added bonus). Several people have told me to get all the same components and not mix and match Tiagra with 105, for example. None of the bikes shops had that opinion, so I accepted the bonus of the Ultegra derailleur. I also thought my biggest problem would be choosing between so many bikes out there. It turns out my biggest problem was having any choices at all. I need a big frame for my long legs, which made every bike I tried too long. The 1500 still felt a little too long on the test ride in the parking lot, even with a shorter stem and the seat moved forward a bit. But I'm not sure if it was just because I'm not used to the road bike position. The LBS guy thought my position on the bike was fine, so I'm going to go with that and hopefully he is right! I can't wait to get it. And I can't wait for some decent weather!!
http://www2.trekbikes.com/Bikes/Road/Performance_Road/Alpha_Aluminum/1500/index.php

[Jasper]

Way to go, Cyclingnewbie! I know how excited you are feeling. I also took the plunge and picked up my Trek 1200 today. I also picked up a used trainer, so I was able to take her for a spin in my living room. I was tempted to take her ‘round the block, but there is still too much snow and slush on the road.

I had the LBS go ahead and install a cycle computer on it when they were putting it together. If you were considering getting one, I would recommend having them install it. I went with the Cat Eye Astrale 8, which has a rear mount, so I can keep track of my cadence and while I’m on my trainer.

Here's a Gatorade toast to your new bike!! \_/ :)

[BikeMomma]

Cool toast Jasper! Keep your glass ready...I'm gettin' a new ride soon, too.... YUM!

Way to go, Ladies, on the new love(ly) machines. :D :D :D

[lkrider]

Hey that's great! I got the same bike (only last years model) a couple of months ago. It's so exciting, but also nerve racking to decide what's the best choice. I had trouble deciding what was a good fit, because I had been riding so long with a poorly fitting frame that I was used to it. Now that I have put a few miles on, (we have been having some unseasonably wonderful weather here) I love it! Enjoy yours!
p.s. ride safe! I went out in wet weather right off the get and crashed on some skittery rail road tracks-it handles differently.

[cyclingnewbie]

Thansk for the advice. I am actually a little worried about learning to ride my very first road bike because it is so different than my heavy, fat tired hybrid. The bike is a little long for me (long story), and the skinny tires will take some getting used to. I decided that I'm going to have to concentrate on what I'm doing and be careful of the pavement (wet spots, etc.). I'm expecting to love it though! I was so excited the night I bought it that I couldn't sleep. I was up in the middle of the night, reading the catalog again. I can't even imagine what Friday will be like, when I actually get it home!! It will be too cold to ride outside, but spinning on the trainer will probably be a good way to get used to the feel of the riding position and do some tweaking before I hit the roads. I am so excited I can't see straight!! (I'd better fix that before I ride it outside too :D )

[CorsairMac]

*insert applauding emoticon here*........way to go! Congrats on your new bike and have a Blast!

[Dirt Girl]

So you got the Trek! Congratulations.

I hope you get to ride outside soon. And I hope you enjoy it as much as I've enjoyed my new ride. I can just feel how excited you are by your posts!