How do I know when it's time for a different bike?

[twinkie]

I've only been riding for a short while, and I decided to get a road bike when I started doing longer rides -- the idea of doing the MS-150 on a mountain bike scared me. I'm nowhere near in enough shape to pull that off (although, i did get passed by people on mountain bikes when i was on a road bike!)

My LBS sells mostly Trek, so I started off trying the Trek 1000. I'm short with short legs, so I'm a little bit limited as to bike frame size (43cm, 650c wheels). I took it in for a few adjustments after a few rides, and I ended up trading it in for a Pilot 2.1 (which is similar to the 2100). It's supposed to have a more "natural" riding position, but it's still a "road bike" (I think). It has road bike gears and skinny tires. Maybe you could take a look at the Pilot line...

And with the 2008 bikes due to come out soon, you could probably get pretty good deals on the 2007 models. I got mine for right around $1000.

[Torrilin]

For what it's worth, not all road bikes are for racing. Try asking the shop for a touring bike. I seem to recall seeing some cyclocross frames built with drop bars too. Some commuter bikes also have drop bars. Tell them that you want to try a variety of frame geometries and drop bars. Be specific about your distance goals and speed goals.

Most shops think "road bike" means "racing bike". And well... not true. Lots of people ride on roads and don't race.