New rider wants to buy a Specialized Ruby Compact. Is this the right choice for me

[Vdreal]

I'm a new rider. I would like to buy a road bike that will last me years and years. I want something comfortable and light. My price range is from 1200 to 2000. can someone help me with this. Thnx.

[Trek420]

Welcome to TE :)

Have you test ridden the Ruby? How'd it feel?

Good thread here with other selections:

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=47673

[MGM]

Don't know if it's right for you, but the Spesh' Ruby compact Comp was PERFECT for me! :p

It's a great bike. Have you ridden any road bikes yet? It all depends on what you're looking for.

[smittykitty]

Luv mine.

[Jo-n-NY]

It is certainly a GREAT bike. I put over 10,000 miles on mine.

[iareteacher]

I have a 2009 Ruby Elite Compact I am selling. She is in mint condition. I am asking $2200.

[Koronin]

Welcome. Definitely test ride it. It's a great bike, but not the right bike for me. I ended up with a Felt F series as that is the perfect bike for me.

[Kiwi Stoker]

If you end up getting addicted to cycling, trust me, you will be upgrading or adding to your stable.. Always will need another bike...

If you can afford a nice bike and are not the type to quit easily, do it. It really saddens me when people go and buy a fabulous bike, use it a few times and it sits never ridden.

[pll]

"Comfortable" is very subjective. You need to test different bikes. Subtle differences in the geometry can make the bike feel different to you. I tried a Ruby when I was shopping for my second (replacement) road bike and I did not like it. That does not make it a good or bad bike in general, simply not a good bike for me.

Try to test the bikes for more than 15 min. How do they handle? How do they feel accelerating? Over bumps? Taking turns/curves? Breaking? Are you comfortable riding on the drops? (can you reach the breaks or even shift?)

A by-product of testing bikes is that you become familiar with one or more bike shops, and the way they handle your bike needs.

[deanywalker21]

My 2008 Ruby Comp Triple was my second roadbike. I have found it to be comfortable and a great climber. This spring I got a 2012 Specialized Vita Elite for commuting and "less serious" riding. I have found the Specialized brand to be a good choice for me. I am 5'2'' with short legs and long torso. That being said the best bike for you is the one that you feel is an extension of you. I get that with my FCR 1, the Ruby and the Vita...never did with the Trek MTB. Happy bike shopping.