03 Oct 07
Originally posted by rhbI concur.
I'm assuming you're talking push bikes, road, racers, and your numbers are $'s.
For your first bike, set a budget. Keep 10% of your budget for pedals, helmet, padded sorts etc.
Get down to a bike shop and get fitted up - the most important thing is getting a bike with the right frame size.
More money will get you a different frame. Entry level will be a ...[text shortened]... rather than chess forums - the advice will be much more forthcoming, and relevant.
I used to have a Trek. Best bike I ever owned.
04 Oct 07
Originally posted by kmac27It isn't as simple as Carbon = faster. I'm no quicker on Carbon over my Alu, until I get to the hills where I notice the 2kg difference enough to dance up them easier. Ave speed is about 1mph difference over 20miles - nothing special.
I'm going to get into racing with a "road bike" not a motorcycle tontos! At the stage I'm at I just want to know if I get a street bike say aluminum that everyone else doesn't go smoke me with carbon fiber. Should I just get carbon fiber right away if i'm going to get into it seriously?
Seriously, check out the bike forums, your local bike shop (lbs from here on!) and your local chain gang (cycling club) - there'll be some old bearded folk somewhere who'll kick your ass on their steel frames regardless of what you're on - speak to them and learn from them (one or more of them will have bike/parts to sell second hand, this is one hobby where you accumulate kit and spares quickly).
05 Oct 07
I might just bite the bullet for this bike
http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/centurypro_08_carbon.htm
I was riding my mtb with street tires and this guy on a touring bike single speed zooms past me. man was I wanting a 30 speed at the moment. we came to a hill and i kept up with him ;-) till the strait away hit. A guy locally I emailed and he said some of the 2007 modesl schwin and another brand were about 900 but worth all they were costing.