Pre-newbie looking for guidance!

[Trek420]

You could have the nicest, smoothest, butteriest titanium bike out there, but if it doesn't fit, you'll have no fun riding it.

Fit is first and foremost. Materials are secondary.

Yep! Yep! I'd rather ride my $200 bike that fits than a $5 grand bike that does not. (well, the $5k bike fits too )

[mooseamerica]

Thank you everybody for being so willing to share. I am very overwhelmed. I died when I read the post that I should test drive for 10 miles....I'm too much of a greenhorn to get out on the road yet! I need to get used to shifting, the feel, everything!

Wow again. I'm going to continue to shop, and I'll take some longer test rides. I'm running a half marathon this weekend, so shopping is on hold for now. I'll check out Bianchi too.

I'm thinking that I'll probably go for something cheap with the intention of learning for the next bike in a couple of years. I'm still open to more suggestions though!

Thanks again!

moo

[Trek420]

I'm thinking that I'll probably go for something cheap with the intention of learning for the next bike in a couple of years.

Get the best frame you can afford. You may fall in love with the bike and upgrade the heck out of it as you wear parts out with miles of happy riding.

My namesake Trek420 originally cost about $400.00, but the time I was done with it I would have needed a Trek 5200 or so to get equal parts.

[LBTC]

Okay, I'll admit, I did not read all of the posts above.

I have had an aluminum frame that was a little too large, and now ride a carbon fibre bike that fits me correctly. The first bike length on my carbon fibre bike, on our rough paved road, and I was in love. If I had bought it sooner, I would have ridden it so much more over the years.

I just saw that a fellow TEer has a carbon bike for sale, that looks like good spec and good geometry for a newbie like you. It's a good price, (1/3 what I paid for mine), and might be in your price range.
http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=22830

Absolutely most important is that the bike fit you. You'll love carbon fibre, but stick with your budget and buy what feels best. I totally agree with that. And don't forget, with your budget, you'll need to spend on helmet, shoes, gloves, and clothing. Look for deals where you can, and try lots of stuff on.

When it comes to shifting, learning the pedals, biking strategy, motivation, come on back - these ladies are awesome!

Hugs and butterflies,
~T~