If you only had $1000 for a bike..........

[thekarens]

My partner is going to be getting 2k in a couple of weeks and plans on buying us both a very entry level road bike. We'd both like something with a more relaxed geometry, but we don't want a flat bar bike. I know at this time of year the 2012s are clearing out so we may be able to get a bike that normally sells around 1200 for 1000.

If you had to recommend a relaxed geometry road bike in that price range what you would recommend? Just looking online I like the way the Felts and Specialized look and in 3rd place Jamis. Obviously fit is most important, but I'm just trying to get ideas of where we might start. I'm not sure what to look for online for relaxed fit road bikes. Also, I guess I am looking to get the best bang for the buck, decent beginner components.

[tulip]

Jamis Aurora. Hands down, no questions.

(assuming it fits, of course)

[Owlie]

Giant and Felt are good bang-for-buck companies, assuming they fit, as is Fuji (sometimes). Specialized and Cannondale tend to be more expensive for what you get.

[thekarens]

Thanks for the suggestions and helping me narrow my choices. The Aurora is really cute and there's a Jamis dealer close to home. Felt and Giant are sold by the same LBS that's on my way home from work so I'll check them both out.

[tulip]

Thanks for the suggestions and helping me narrow my choices. The Aurora is really cute and there's a Jamis dealer close to home. Felt and Giant are sold by the same LBS that's on my way home from work so I'll check them both out.

Jamis is one of the few bigger companies that makes really nice steel bikes. They make aluminum and carbon ones, too, but they do make some smooth steel bikes. I would not hesitate to get another one (mine is 10 years old and going very strong).

[Rubylvr]

tulip: I am thinking of an Aurora or a Bosa nova. Did you try both? How does the Aurora fit you, and is it ok on gravel?
Thanks
Rubylvr