Entry level road bike recommendations

[Hard-Deck]

Thanks upfront for all advice.

I'm a 44 YO male, active duty Army, in pretty good condition; I can still run 5K in 22:30. I've never had a road bike but I want to cross-train now. What do you recommend for under $1,000?

[85eurocarrera]

so many choices. I'd look at finding a nice local bike shop and have them fit you with something they sell..

Thank you for your service!

[David]

At each price range the components and frames are pretty similar so I'd recommend finding a good local bike shop that will fit you to whatever bike you buy. This means installing the right width seat and right length stem at no additional charge and helping you get the bike set up to you. And this doesn't usually happen on the first setup when you pick up the bike but takes a few changes as you put miles on the bike and figure out what works. Or you can pay about $300 and get your bike custom fit to you where they use measurements and video from a couple angles to get the bars, stem, seat, and pedals set to you.

[FLYGEEZER]

Thank you for your service & God bless. Get something to your liking. You deserve it!

[mikester]

[matthew-s]

Don't rule out 2nd hand. There are a big set of road bike folks that get upgrade-itis (fortunately myself excluded!).

6 years ago, when I got mine, I found there is a huge step up across some component groups, and then the price/value curve flattens out.

For example, back then there was a huge difference between Shamano 105 and Ultegra, but far less between Ultegra and Dura Ace.

So - do ride a few. If you are cool with a new bike at the $1000 price point, great! If not, shop around for a lightly used bike with better components, and do get a fitting!

[greglepore]

bikesdirect.com-I know several long time roadies that have used these bikes...they are steals at the prices offered.

[Joe Bob]

Fit is important, go to a couple of roadie type shops and get the free help. Frame size, reach and comfort on a bike is Job 1.

Then shop on the used market. You would be surprised what you will find.

I'm a Campagnola Chorus fan, CF and steel frames are the best buy if you can find them. A real forgiving ride is the Lemond Zurich. It's what I ride and it has been the best I've owned.

[enzo1]

what Joe Bob says about fit then buy a used carbon fiber.... make sure the cf doesn't have any nicks or scrapes and no evidence of repair. Also, figure in shoes, helmet, new seat, shorts. Save up, it's worth it. Buy from someone who thought they were going to get in shape then ran into problems with dogs , being clipped in and getting road rash, etc...

[Scooter]

#1 know your fitment.

Once you know your size, just buy used, especially if this is your first road bike. After you have ridden for a while and know you will keep enjoying it, then look at buying new. Also, you will get to know what type of riding you want to do and what type of bike is best for your situation. You will be able to get a bike that cost $3,000 a year ago for $1,000 bucks today.

I would probably start with steel and look for a bike with better components/wheels. Unless you are racing, a nicely setup steel bike will be a great all around bike. Steel is nice because it is forgiving and takes a lot of the harshness out of the ride...great for touring, yet perfectly great for other types of riding as well. Aluminum is harsh, stiff and quick. Carbon is more compliant, stiff, light and expensive. Ti is lighter than steel, yet compliant like steel, but more expensive.

[snbush67]

Try this for great entry level research.

Road Bike Mike | A Site Devoted to Sharing the Love of Cycling

Use this link for a fit calculator; It is very detailed you can take measurements in CM or Inches.

Fit Calculator - Competitive Cyclist

[911dean]

Have you considered a Cyclocross bike? They are comfortable and more of and all around bike in my opinion. Kona has a new steel frame w/ disc brakes available the Kona Rove. Unfortunately its list price is beyond $1000.
Dean

[mikeferg75]

Figure out your size, and then cruise craigslist for a used Litespeed.

[Scooter]

Originally Posted by mikeferg75

Figure out your size, and then cruise craigslist for a used Litespeed.

Litespeed would be a great used TI bike, especially if it was a Lynskey frame before he sold the company in 2002.

[Joe Bob]

Litespeed Ardennes Road Bike - 57cm

62cm Litespeed 'classic' Dura ace

[Scooter]

I like the one in Downey. Nice ride and I like the B17. I must own a Brooks saddle someday.

[mikeferg75]

Originally Posted by Scooter

Litespeed would be a great used TI bike, especially if it was a Lynskey frame before he sold the company in 2002.

Yes, here is my 1999 Appalachian.

[Schrup]

I got this Litespeed Tuscany with well used Ultegra off CL for $1K. I have no regrets, great bike, though I need to start replacing worn out components. I could sell it with in a week for what I paid.

I nearly bought from bikesdirect & may in the future. Everyone I've seen on one is thrilled. I let a half priced Madone get away from a local bike shop, great deals can be found when they start clearance. I'm just glad I was patient.

[nostatic]

fit, fit, and fit. Most online calculators (and shops) will put you on a bike that is too small. I like Grant Peterson's take on fit:

Bicycle Fit, Sizing & Position

[Joe Bob]

I'm seeing a lot of SRAM components.....anyone have any experience?