Finally decided on a bike.....

I have been searching for a new road bike since February. I tried a bunch, did many, many test rides and finally found "the one-- that spoke to me". It is a 2010 Trek 520 touring bike. I can not wait!!!! I get to pick her up in 2 weeks....It will be the longest 2 weeks of my life, I think:o

At first I wanted a dedicated road bike but, after thinking about my riding preferences, this 520 is perfect for me. I admit--the fact that it is steel kind of scared me....I wanted a light weight bike, and most people (even my LBS) always remark how heavy steel bikes are, as soon as you mention them. It's kind of weird because it really shocked me how light it felt, when I picked it up. And it is sooooooooooo comfy of a ride. I LOVE steel bikes now;)

I want to commute, do some errands and eventually work up to some fully loaded touring vacations. Now, i just have to get my DH on board with my plans:D

Any suggestions???

We have done a lot of backcountry hiking/camping but,the last time we were in Yellowstone NP, he commented about how he didn't think cycle touring would be fun. :(

Anyway, just a note for anyone in the market for a new bike...PLEASE go to your LBS to get properly fitted. I tried several bikes from all manufacturers and they all felt different. I even needed different sizes in each. I am 5'7" with a 32" inseam and I was sure I would take the 51cm but tried the 54cm Trek 520 and it fit almost perfect. I have a fit scheduled for Sat. 4-17 with my LBS. He may change the stem for me but that's about it.

I will definitely post pics when I get her in 2 weeks. I'm already picking out panniers and bags, helmet, gloves, shoes, clothes....I have a lot of shopping to do.

Anyone else from Michigan that does cycle touring? I can not wait for my first trip. Any suggestions for the Midwest area of the US are welcome.

One of my cycling buddies got a Trek 520 for Christmas. It's a VERY nice looking bike. We're plan on introducing her to cycle touring AND camping. It going to be a fun and interesting summer. :D We're planning to start very local with one nighters to the local state park and branch out from there. Maybe you could do the same with your DH? bikerHen

Nice! I have a 520 and love it! Even spoke to the Trek Rep for my area about it and he said that it's one of the best bikes they make. Over 25 years in production for a reason. (The first year for the 520 was 1983.) Welcome to the "520 club." :D So many choices in panniers and other gear have wonderful fun! The 520 is a blast for commuting, climbs hills like a beast. Many happy long rides to you!!!! Touring bikes are all about the adventure, baby!

Going to the local State Parks is a great idea. I have a list going of the tours I want to do. So far I have DALMAC (get to ride across the Mackinac Bridge:)) P.A.L.M (Pedal Across Lower Michigan) and I want to do RAGBRAI one day.