2009 Jamis Coda Sport or Giant Dash 3?

[wannabike]

2009 Jamis Coda Sport or Giant Dash 3???

Hi a I am new in the cycling world and just getting into it. I am looking for my first bike and I am stuck between these two. Or should I be looking for something totally different?
I will mostly be riding around town for fitness and entering a few triathlons. Well, the main reason I will be getting one is to train and compete in my first Sprint Tri. Not sure if I would ever graduate to a full tri.
Does anyone have one of these bikes or that could give me any suggestions? Thank you!

[Zen]

Ride then decide.

[Kubla]

Ride then decide.

+1 Choose a bicycle that feels good and puts a smile on your face when you ride it.

That being said, I can comment on the '09 Coda Sport. I've had mine about 6 months and it never fails to delight. The steel frame-while admittedly heavier than aluminum-handles rough roads beautifully. It shifts smoothly and the gearing enables it to buzz right along with ease. In my opinion, it's a quality bike that is worth every penny. I like it so much, in fact, that I just bought a Jamis Aurora (touring) bike.

On the other hand, I'm a recreational/fitness rider only. If you are considering competition, you might want to purchase a drop bar road bike with a lighter frame. Hopefully other competitive riders will have other hints for you. Good luck with your goals, and let us know what you choose.

[HillSlugger]

I use a Coda elite as my commuter bike. Good bike, good value. Test ride lots.

[roadie gal]

I can't speak to those two bikes specifically, but I know from experience that you can't go wrong with Jamis bikes. They make a great bike for the money.

[mellyb]

I am in a similar situation as far as biking, use it for fitness, biking around town with my little ones and am doing a sprint tri this summer, will likely continue with that but my not ever do a full either! Am between a Jamis Coda, Giant Dash 3 and an Orbea Aqua T23. I like the ride on all three. Can anyone comment?