What kind of bike are you riding now? (you said you're doing some riding right now, what is that bike?)
Be sure to test ride lots of bikes. Try some steel, some aluminum, some carbon. We all have opinions, but you need to see what works best for you. You'll get that experience best by going to your bike shop and telling him you want to try a few of each. Talk to him about the pros and cons YOU felt on each bike.
A lot of things can be changed (saddles, bars, etc) and Mike will be able to help you figure that part out.
Yes, buying from a shop is very important. You want a good shop for lots of things, and buying a bike from them is just the start of it.
Welcome to the board!
Last edited by KnottedYet; 01-07-2008 at 03:21 PM.
"If Americans want to live the American Dream, they should go to Denmark." - Richard Wilkinson