Reading the custom related thread, made me curious as to what your personal wants and needs are in a bike, and how you realized that you wanted or needed those features. As a new rider, it's helpful to have an awareness of what improvements to consider.

I'm am in the beginning stages of building a bike and am thinking about this a lot. I went with a titanium frame because I was able to find a frame on sale that fit and my because body feels beat up after a ride from all the bumps in the road. Rode on a road that was being prepped for resurfacing and felt more exhausted than after climbing hills. I also wanted wheels that would help make hill climbs not so sloooow. I was told that because I am short and thin (could lose 5 pounds), a small carbon frame would not absorb the road chatter much more than what I'm riding now, a 47 cm Trek Lexa S. I'm shrinking... used to be 5'3" and now am 5'2". Not sure if the carbon frame part was true from what I've read others say.

As for the frame, one that fits better. The lbs owner sized me, but did not fit me on my current bike. I had originally paid $150 for a fitting where I originally purchased the Lexa and don't want to pay for another fitting. I always feel like I'm having to slide back on my saddle to take the pressure on my hands and wrists. The lbs owner, who compared the fit of my bike to the one I bought, switched out my current saddle and moved it up 1.25". I've been riding for 3 months with a lower seat. Unbelievable difference in being able to breath into my lower lungs, speed, climbing ability, endurance and handling. I can ride without holding onto the handlebars! The first few rides I was very sore as my muscles had to readjust. Too much of a good thing too soon. But, I'm still sliding forward on the saddle. The lbs owner also commented, "No wonder you're miserable on hills, your bike doesn't fit you! And, the cranks are too long. You should be using 165 cranks." Which I can see how a shorter crank would help with smoother pedal strokes and increased cadence.

What are some things you've learned that you wanted or needed in a bike?