Advice on bike upgrade

[Catrin]

I add my voice to those who have suggested holding off and saving your money to get a non-entry level bike. It might take longer that way, but you wouldn't regret being able to get more bike for your money. It is possible you might be able to find something nicer from Craig's list - it does happen. I like Emily's alternate suggestion of using that money to get a new frame and moving your parts over, you would want to get an estimate from whatever LBS you choose on what they would charge to do the work.

[indysteel]

The parts on her current bike aren't worth putting on a new frame IMO. They're low end and she 's already having a hard time keeping it in tune. Plus, a complete bike is almost always a better deal, especially when you consider the labor costs in stripping town the parts on one bike to build up another.

[Catrin]

The parts on her current bike aren't worth putting on a new frame IMO. They're low end and she 's already having a hard time keeping it in tune. Plus, a complete bike is almost always a better deal, especially when you consider the labor costs in stripping town the parts on one bike to build up another.

True, I had forgotten that she was already having problems with her existing components. Since she wouldn't be purchasing the parts from the LBS there wouldn't be any discounted labor costs. Good point.

[pinsonp2]

Your local dealers should be able to order a 2012 bike at a reduced cost once you decide on what you want. My favorite LBS publishes the leftovers available for Trek, Specialized and Giant with the discount price (sizes in red are local only). Here's the link http://www.jacksbikes.com/contents/e..._Bicycles.html. This will at least give you an idea of what you can get for the money with year end sales.

As for your list, my first road bike was a 2010 Dolce Sport Compact. It was a great start, but it was only a couple of months before I found a great deal on a 2009 Trek 2.1 WSD. Although only $50 more, it was so much nicer and it soon became my main road bike. The Dolce is a bit more temperamental with shifting, so it is idle most of the time. This is a way of saying, get what you really want, even if you have to wait.

Good Luck,
P2