1st century (maybe), new roadie on a budget

[north woods gal]

Whew! 58cm? I have a long 32" inseam and that size frame would give me some serious stand over issues, as in pull my foot off the pedal and drop it to the ground in a quick stop. Try it and see, though. Only way to know for sure.

Yeah, I'm something of a Trekie, too, though not even close to exclusively so. Have had so many good bikes from other brands that I'd never go Trek, only. Still, three out of our six bikes are Treks.

Yes, Sora will get you through the summer. In fact, just about any group will. The problem comes down the road when you want something better (usually after you've ridden something better ) or the cheap group gives out. Then it gets VERY expensive to change out to higher components. (Ask me how I know.) It's always more cost effective to buy good components when you buy the bike, rather than upgrade, later. You don't have to get crazy and buy the best. After a point, you are paying for smoother and faster shifting, but not necessarily better reliability. As I said, a good midline group like Tiagra will keep you rolling for a long, long time and get you decent shifting.

Now, I apologize if I sound like a component snob. I don't mean to be. For sure, not everyone needs to spend the money on good components. Those of us who ride a lot, though, know the difference. Then, too, a bicycle has been my sole means of transportation at several times in my life, riding in all kinds of weather (even winter in the snow), so any breakdowns or failures were pretty big deals. I really couldn't afford to go cheap on my bikes at those times. That kind of experience has left it's mark on me, so please don't anyone be offended about me being a bit picky on this issue. I promise not to be pushy about it, okay? Again, the last thing I want is to offend, anyone.