Well, it's been a few years since I have ridden and the bug has really bit me, I wish I never sold my road bike a few years ago, but I did, so now I need to get something new (or at least new to me).
I don't want to spend much more than say $800, as I would likely need to get new pedals and shoes and I want to stay under $1000 when all is said and done.
So far I've come across some different ideas and I wanted to get some opinions:
-Used. I've seen some nice bikes on eBay and I wouldn't be afraid of buying on there. I bid on a nice cannondale today
linky but I lost the auction. I'm keeping my eyes peeled for anything good that pops up and I am also looking on craigslist, but I'm not sure how long I want to wait for the "right" deal.
-New. Well this falls into two camps. I went to a pretty reputable local bike shop and looked at the Trek 1000 and Specialized Allez. Both are around the same money ($650-$700) and with tax and shoes would come in just under a grand. I know both are good bikes but I don't really know if either one is a good value.
-Another new option that I have seen is from bikesdirect.com. A friend of mine sent me a few links to two different bikes they have in my price range. A
Mercier and a
Windsor His (my friend) reasoning is that both bikes allow you to have better components than a big name brand for the same money. Their frames might not be 100% as good, but close enough that you wouldn't be able to tell the difference nor would it matter.
Any input from guys that ride is appreciated, I know you're out there!
