The most important thing is fit. If it hurts to ride, it doesn't matter if you have top of the line everything.

I have a steel bike. It might weigh a couple pounds more than carbon fiber. So what? I could lose a couple of pounds & be right there with my sisters! Steel is comfortable & if it breaks, you can get it fixed. Frame is important. Size & fit. Stay away from aluminum if you can. It is really stiff and can become tiring after awhile on rough roads. Steel has some give to it. Carbon fiber has more give.

Components can be upgraded. Get the best you can afford right now. If you're in love with your fit & frame, you can upgrade later. If you aren't in love with your fit & frame, at least you didn't pour a bunch of money into it! And -- you'll know exactly what you want next time.

If you can ride bikes with different components, do it. Ignore the bike's fit & concentrate on how easily it shifts for you.

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