First Bike.... Ever

[SouthernBelle]

You pointed out 'minor' differences in the 2 bikes. I promise that on a long ride, these will become major differences.

[silver]

What every body else said was good......and here are a few of my amateur observations.

In my opinion, it is very important to buy your first bike from a local reputable bike shop. You will need a lot of help with initial adjustments and you should have the convenience of being able to pop into the shop whenever to ask questions. Most bike shops will give you one year of free adjustments or some discount.

did you feel comfortable at that shop and the sales person? How does your bike friend feel about this shop? Of course the bike shop guy will be biased but take that into account and try to discern whether he is trying to get your the best fit. Maybe look to see whether he has the size bigger and smaller and ask to try them both too and ask why he feels the size is right. this can weed out whether he's just trying to sell you what he has. Ask if he will order the next size bigger/smaller, if you think you'd like to try it.

With just a basic look at your measurements.....at 5'7" and an inseam of 31" actually I'd say that your torso is on the longer side....My understanding of the WSD idea is that women usually have longer legs and shorter torsos than men. So it would be my guess that you would be ok on either. so I'd go with what felt best to you in terms of the handlebars.

materials......most everybody has a definate preference on this! but from what you describe your riding desires to be, I'd steer you to aluminum or carbon. If carbon is in your price range then I'd go with it. Carbon is going to give you an excellent ride and be lightweight. This is will be great for going fast in triathlons, climbing hills, and accelerating out of turns. Carbon will also be comfortable for long distance riding.

As to whether to go for the better bike as a beginner.....if you've got the money, then I'd say yes. since you are already athletic, you are just going to need to learn some of the more technical riding things and you will be going strong. You might be quickly disappointed with a lower end bike.

Keep in mind that as you get more addicted to this sport (and you will!) you will want more and better. One of the best ways to update any bike is to get better wheels. Rarely is a bike sold stock with wheels that are worthy of it. this cost could be $500 to $2000 in the next year or so.

hope this helps!

[KSH]

Hey Girly! I live in Dallas and I bought both my Trek 1000 and my Specialized Tarmac (OK, boyfriend bought that one!) from Richardson Bike Mart.

Do not buy your bike online... buy it at RBM. You want to be fit on the bike after you buy it and you will need to take it in for the occasional tune-up. Sure, they will work on a bike not bought there, but some of those things are included in the price.

The Ruby is a nice bike. Do you like it? Have you compared the ride and fit to other bikes?

I guess the other question is this... can you easily afford a bike in that price range? If so, and the bike is the best one for you.. then go for it.

I love my Trek 1000, but the components... the Tiagra and Sorta shifters/derailer on it were a pain in the booty. I had to take it to the shop for minor adjustments all the time. Shoot, there was a point for 6 months I couldn't get in/out of the large chain ring. Shifting with those components was a pain.

My Specialized has all Ultegra... derailer, shifters, brakes, etc. I have yet to take it into the shop for an adjustment. Well, maybe once after the chain stretched some... but that's common. So, ONCE in a YEAR. With my Trek 1000, I was in the shop 4 times a month.

The 105 components are good too... so if you have the money... and you can afford it... DO NOT get a BIKE with anything LESS THAN 105's... 105's/Ultegra/DuraAce... all very good. Tiagra and Sorta are OK, but they aren't great.

Good luck and once you get up and riding... check out the Greater Dallas Bicyclists. They even do a newbie's ride on Sunday's. Great for somene who is just learning to ride on the road and in groups.

[mimitabby]

You pointed out 'minor' differences in the 2 bikes. I promise that on a long ride, these will become major differences.

Yes. In 5 miles that extra stretch is going to mess with your neck, back, shoulders and that grip is going to start hurting your hands.

if the ruby feels good, get it.
Aluminum, Steel, Titanium, Carbon? It's up to you, it's all about how much you want to spend. I've had countless good miles on an aluminum, cheaper bike.
I'm riding steel now and I like it better. But if that carbon bike is the right price and you like it, go for it.
You aren't going to have a BAD bike because it's made of the wrong stuff.
Have fun. and keep us posted on your progress!

[TechsanNurse]

Thank you all for all of your advice! I'm still shopping around and still overwhelmed with the decision!

[TechsanNurse]

I'm so excited! I bought my first bike this weekend - after several weeks of research, test-riding, and pulling out my hair! Thank you all who replied with the great advice! I'm totally thrilled to be apart of the cycling community and to have such a great resource as this forum. Thanks again! My Cannondale Six13 Feminine 3:

[carimail]

Well, that's about the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. Enjoy!!

[redrhodie]

Pretty!