Pre-newbie looking for guidance!

[kelownagirl]

I'm incredibly, horribly, indubitably biased. I'd be looking for a steel frame bike that fit perfectly in that price range (maybe used) and planning to upgrade components as my needs changed in the future.

But I like steel.

A lot.

Whatever you get, get a frame that feels wonderful to you when you ride, that feels like it's part of you, that you just can't wait to take off on. Components can be swapped later. The frame is the heart and soul of a bike, the frame is the part you can't change.

Feel the bike love, and don't be afraid to go with what (literally) moves you!

Knot-2-lugged-steel-bikes-and-2-TIG-welded-steel-bikes

(most of the steel bikes I'd recommend are in the $800-$1000 range, which might be more than you're thinking of spending. Try looking at used bikes in your area. Sometimes used can be a really good way to get started.)

And the rest of us drool over carbon...