Advice on road bike purchase

[Lenusik]

I wouldn't spend this much because unless you are sure that you will LOVE road biking. I would start with something between $500- $600, maybe a used one as long as it fits right. After you are sure about road riding, I would actually spend much more than a $1,000. It will last you longer and will be right for you.

[bcipam]

There is literally a world of difference between a $1000 bike and a $3000 bike. A $1000 bike will usually be aluminum or steel with lower end components for $3000 you can get Ti or Carbon with at least Ultegra.

I agree, first ride decide if you like the sport and then if so, by all means plan on spending $3000 and get a good bike. Spend the time while you are riding and deciding to visit bike shops, check with other cyclists, join a club and ask questions. Don't rush the decision. Take your time. This is even more important than buying a car!

[bikerz]

I was thinking about getting a new bike a few months ago - maybe even a custom bike, and so I started looking at the questionnaires the custom bike places ask you to fill out to help determine geometry, components, material, etc. I quickly realized that I had a LOT more to learn about cycling in general and my own preferences, strengths and weaknesses. I have been trying to "study" my rides with these questionnaires in mind, and I find it really has helped me think about what I ultimately might want - even though I'm not ready to make a descison yet!

here are some links that might be interesting:

Seven Cycles - custom fit kit (oooh - I love Sevens!)
Luna Cycles - custom questionnaire can be downloaded

[Bike Goddess]

I agree with what Biker Z is saying. I started out with a steel bike- Jamis Quest- which has been a wonderful bike for me. I had a mtn bike derailleur put on as I wanted lower gears to climb steep mountains.

This last fall (2005) I had the opportunity to get a carbon bike on sale (Scott CR 1) and I bought it! Had I purchased this bike 3 years ago, I wouldn't have been ready for it as it is a very fast bike.

I would highly recommend that you find a good road bike in the $1000-2000 range before you commit to something more expensive. You'll discover what kind of riding you like to do, how far you want to go, and what kind of gears you like. Ride lots of different types of frames- aluminum, steel, carbon (if you can find one for the price)- get the best wheels you can for the money, as well as components. If you ride enough bikes, you will discover which one feels the best. None of us can tell you that part, we can only tell you what we like. If the shoe fits, wear it!!!!

[Cyclesome]

I appreciate all the good advice. I am 5' 5 1/2 ", 144 lbs., average proportioned. I work out at the gym at least 3 times per week and consider myself to be in relatively good shape.

What specific bike would you recommend in the $1000 - $2000 range? LBS shops within my area carry Trek, Cannondale, Giant. Do I need need a bike designed specifically for women or is this just a fad or for the petite woman?

Any advice is appreciated.

[KnottedYet]

Have you considered buying a frame and having a bike built from the frame for you?

I know I've posted this before (sorry everyone!) but I'm also looking for a road bike. I know I want a tourer with a steel frame. Not a speed machine, and certainly not a light weight with skinny wheels and tight geometry. I know the components I want (for the most part). Actually, I'm literally on my way out the door in a few minutes to go to Free Range Cycles to discuss building tourer from a Soma Double Cross or Surly Long Haul Trucker.

"Instant" bikes I've looked at are Jamis Aurora and Burley Vagabond. But I think I'd be happier if I could put exactly what I want on the frame.

www.freerangecycles.com
www.somafab.com
www.surlybikes.com

[Trekhawk]

I appreciate all the good advice. I am 5' 5 1/2 ", 144 lbs., average proportioned. I work out at the gym at least 3 times per week and consider myself to be in relatively good shape.

What specific bike would you recommend in the $1000 - $2000 range? LBS shops within my area carry Trek, Cannondale, Giant. Do I need need a bike designed specifically for women or is this just a fad or for the petite woman?

Any advice is appreciated.

Go take a look and have fun. Im 5'4 and neither of my road bikes are WSD. We are all so different in our body measurements regardless of height that you really need to try lots of bikes including WSD and see what fits your body best.

Enjoy and happy bike hunting.

[bcipam]

Do a search on this site for "bike fittings"... before you consider spending any money on any bike get a fitting. Once you have your measurements then you can start looking at bikes and comparing geometries etc. You may or may not need a WSD bike - its depends on your proportions not your height. If your legs are long but torso and reach short you may want a WSD bike but not necessarily.

You need to understand how you ride, you need to know materials and how they feel when your ride - such as Ti, steel, carbon and alumnium, and you need to know components. Do some internet research. Aluminum bikes are harsh feeling but stiff, can go fast. Carbon, Ti and steel are more forgiving materials generally but can also be stiff. There is also bike design (such as compact frames, touring, race, comfort etc) to consider.

If you need to stay around $1000 - 1500 look for a good steel bike (just my humble opinion) with the best components you can get. Lemond sells a nice steel bike with full Ultegra for around $1500. Although not a fan of carbon (but alot of folks are) you can get a nice, comfortable carbon bike from say Trek for around $2000.