[CJFusco]

I am currently in a Masters/Teaching Certification program and will be doing student teaching within 7 or 8 miles of my house. I am what you would call a "health nut," and with my current schedule it's hard to find time to exercise every day. Combine this with the RIDICULOUS gas prices, the fact that I own two old cars that need pretty close attention to maintenance, and it probably shouldn't surprise you that I am in the market for a used bike.

I used to do a good amount of mountain biking, and owned several varieties of Specialized bikes (first a Hard Rock, then a Rock Hopper, then a Stump Jumper). My Stump Jumper got stolen (while locked up with a kryptonite chain!) when I was living in Boston. Unfortunately I had sold my Rock Hopper; I am currently bike-less.

Although I have always owned mountain bikes, I think that a road bike would be more appropriate for my current needs. West Hartford is a densely-populated suburban town; everything is close together, there is a lot of traffic, etc.

How good are Specialized's road bikes? Is there any brand I should seriously consider? My price range is $100-200 for a used bike.

I have checked Craigslist and eBay. It seems like eBay has better prices and more variety. Any tips? Places I should look?