First: In my opinion there is no such thing as a sweet deal on a bicycle. Shops don't get much of a mark up on the bikes, but rather the accessories. That is one reason why they tend to give the cage & bottle or other small items as a free perk. They really don't have a lot of leeway on the actual bike for discounts.

In a lot of ways, you get what you pay for. With todays technology and advances you are getting more bang for your buck. The differences of quality are probably not that different than MTB. Some help on this one?

More importantly, FIT FIT FIT!
You can spend $4500.00 on a bike, but if it don't fit, it ain't worth a dime!

Consider your needs and goals? What can you live without? What do you need? Always anticipate upgrade ability? Will it be able to grow with you if you get hooked?

Without starting any riots, I'm a Campy girl so have no opinion on components. You can always upgrade later on and it has developed well enough that it's all pretty good if you don't want to get techy.

It is not unusual for road riders to have MTB pedals, especially for charity rides etc. It's easier to walk around, stop for a picnic etc.


And I do reiterate FIT FIT FIT! ANd do a lot of talking with a lot of shops if you can.