Quote Originally Posted by rain View Post
I need advice on buying a new bike. My current bike is too small, and my preferred riding position is more stretched out than it used to be.
I got a very good bike fit. The bikes that fit were a 51 cm Cannondale Synapse and a 50 cm Trek Lexa. I will be test riding their carbon bikes in a few weeks.

- I plan to keep this bike for 8 - 10 years. Is it worth it to get a new bike or should I shop for a used bike?

- Is the carbon bike worth it? I currently ride about 13 -14 mph. I'm too slow for the groups that ride longer distances. On the other hand, if I could find people that I'm comfortable with, I really love longer rides (40 - 60 miles or more). I also find that if I don't have company, I don't ride nearly as much.

Thanks.
Where in Maryland are you? I average 14 mph, give or take a few mph on any given ride. The Oxon Hill Club in southern Maryland offers longer rides at that speed. I think you might find some Baltimore Bicycling Club rides that work for you, too, though I'm not as familiar with their schedule.