another new rider

[HillSlugger]

I stopped by a couple bike shops today and was offered completely different options.

The first shop took me first to the hybrid section and when I said I wasn't really looking for a hybrid to the fitness bike and once I asked about it the cyclocross options.

The second bike store took me to the hybrids first and I again said I didn't really want a hybrid, he told me he wouldn't really let 1/2 mile of gravel stand in his way. (I was a little put off, but then realized he was trying to help.) He then showed me the Giant Dash series (which is coming out in 2010), and after we talked for a while recommended the Dash 2.

So what do you think? I haven't actually sat on or tested out any of these bikes, but I was surprised someone recommended a road bike for me, as I didn't think I would be able to do it with so much gravel between me and the road.

I do mainly want to ride on the road, and do long trips including of course Bike across Kansas in a couple years, but don't want to have to put my bike on a car to get to the road. kwim?

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

The Dash 2 looks like it might be able to suit your needs since it is able to accommodate 28c tires. 28's are a good compromise between on road performance and comfort and the ability to deal with your gravel road and other rough-ish surfaces. One thing to consider is that since this bike is a "flat bar" road bike it offers you less hand positions than you get with a "drop bar" bike. On a long ride, like BAK, a drop bar gives you hand positions on the hoods, in the drops, and on the flat top part. A flat bar gives you only the one position, with an option for a second if you add on bar ends.

I assume you are thinking that whatever you buy in the near term will be THE bike you'll have for the long term and for BAK? Is there a chance of another new bike in a year or so before BAK?

So, when are you going to start test riding?