New and getting a new bike
Hello all,
I used to ride alot when I was a teenager and had a nice bike - Bianchi Forza, but then I went to college and became a lot more sedentary and stopped riding. So two years ago I pulled out my old Bianchi and went for a ride with my husband, and I was completely uncomfortable. The reach was too far, and the saddle was really uncomfortable. The whole activity felt awkward. I guess my 30-year-old body was a bit more sensitive than my 16-year-old one! I went on a few more rides and things did not improve. So this year my husband and I are both getting new bikes and I'm really excited to get a good fitting bike and get back out there, plus I'm hoping to do a century ride next year for charity. I've only been to two bike shops but I've fallen in love with a Bianchi 1885 Veloce, which costs $1000 more than I wanted to spend. I did a mini test run and was afraid of the bike (what if something happened to it while I was test riding it?) but even in the few minutes I was on it I was more comfortable than on my Forza. So today I'm going back to test ride again. My questions here are - am I crazy for wanting to spend $2000 when I'm not currently a heavy rider? Is it better to get what I want up front or to work up to a good bike? Is it way too much equipment for me - will I look like an idiot to more seasoned bikers? I do intend to do a lot of riding this summer...
Thanks in advance for the advice!