Road Cycling - New Bike Help

This place is great. I've been searching the internet for awhile trying to find something like this. So I've search the threads for advice on new bikes and got a lot of helpful information, but still have some questions.

Anyway, here is my story.....

Currently I am a fairly competitive distance runner, but need something to else to get into. (Running training year round was getting boring). I figured that road biking was the logical choice. I am also trying a sprint tri this fall to see if I like that sport.


I know that I will like road biking once I give it a try for awhile. How far I get into it depends on how much money and time I am willing to invest. I don't plan to spend a lot of money to start. I was thinking about $1100-$1400 total for bike and all the equipment. With that I figure I have a price range on bikes from about $700 to $1000.

I have been checking out the LBS, but am having a hard time finding any bikes in my size. I am 6'1" and 150 pounds. So far I've ridden a Cannondale R400 (60cm) and am waiting for a Trek 1200 (60cm) to get in at another shop. I tried a Trek 2200 in a 58cm, but it is out of my price range and the wrong size. I know that I should ride as many bikes as possible, but it is becoming a fruitless task finding my size. Any advice?

As for the Cannondale R400 I rode, it is hard to say how it felt. It is the first road bike I've ridden. The price on it seems good, $700. That leaves me plenty of room for other equipment.

That said, if I know that I'll most likely get pretty serious into riding should I go with the R600??

In the end there are 2 questions I need help on...

1) How to find a bike that feels good to me when none of the shops have my size (60cm)?
2) What should I set as my minimum bike if I am pretty sure I'll get into the sport?
3) Cannondal R400 or the R600

Any advice would help.

Thanks

You've got some pretty long legs huh? I'm guessing a 34 to 36 inch inseam. A 58 to 60 cm frame is about the range I'd put you on to start with that inseam measurment, using this formula. (Good first step at frame sizing)

Inseam (inches) x 2.54 cm/in to convert to metric

Multiply that value by .667 for appropriate frame size

(34" inseam = 57.6 cm frame or 58 cm)
(36" inseam = 60.99 cm or 61 cm)

However, taller riders prefer to use this formula: inseam in cm, minus 27-28 cm. Using this, a 34" yields a 60cm frame.

I'm 6'0", but got these short stubby legs, with a long torsoe. Of all the bikes I've ridden, LeMond bikes fit best as they seem to have a longer top tube. You're the opposite. You will find that traditional frames (not Compact) may fit your body better. (i.e., stay away from bikes like Giant's OCR's)

A good value to investigate is FELT bikes. They've got the F65, which is an aluminum frame, carbon fork and FULL 105 components for a MSRP of $999.00

One of the best values in today's market.

They ride pretty nice too!

L8R

Got long winded and forgot to answer your ?'s

1. Finding bikes to "test ride" may be difficult in your size. Call ahead and see if any shops in your area have the sizes you need before you make the trip. A Cannondale R800 is going to fit the same as their R2000, so don't limit yourself to the specific model. Many companies have the same frame, just attach different components at each price point. Same thing with other brands as well. Just ask as some TOP of the Line models vary geometries, but most middle of the line bikes use the same frame.

2. If you think you're going to ride about 75 to 100 miles per week (3 or 4 times) I wouldn't recommend anything below 105 components. Tiagra and Sora are decent, but you'll quickly WANT better quality, quicker shifts, more precision, lighter weight...etc.

3. I'd spend a little more and get the R600, if limited to ONLY those two choices. However, you are NOT limited. Try to find a left over 2002 bike or 2003 as new models are due at the end of September.

L8R

Van, I'm 6'2 and have a 61cm Specialized Allez Sport. I for mine for just over 700 and while at the lower end of your range, you have more money for clothing, parts, and other stuff. good luck on your buy, I'm sure if you ride all sorts of bike that you will find one you love.

-Ross