Bicycle Mechanics - Fuji?

Hello all,

I have a question. Once again, I am very new to cycling and all of the terminology. Right now I have a Giant-Boulder mtb, 21-speed. But, I really want to get a road sport bike for commuting and getting in shape. I might possibly try some centuries and things like that but right now I'm not sure. I do know for sure that I want to commute and get in shape. I'm strongly considering getting a Fuji. I was on their website and saw this line of bikes called "Fuji-Newest" I am considering either the 3.0 or the 4.0. Does anyone have any advice or experience with the Fuji bicycles?

I'll probably be riding anywhere from 70-100 miles per week. My goal is to get to at least 100 miles per week and then slowly increase that. I ride mainly over smooth ground. There are spots where the pavement is uneven, speed bumps, a few pot-holes, but nothing that I can't go around or avoid. It's also very hilly in parts. So what do you guys think?

You might want to try this in the Road forum. I have a Fuji (Roubaix RC) and it's a decent bike which I have no complaints with. Go ride a few at a local shop and see what you like and what fits.

My girlfriend (now ex) bought a Fuji Newest 2.0 and is very happy with it. She wanted something with rack mounts to commute with but didn't like the "too quick" handling of the typical race bike. She liked a couple of touring rigs and cross bikes but I wanted to steer her towards something a few pounds lighter and fast enough for her to stay close on some of the local club rides. The Newest was a solid choice. Rack mounts, about 23 lbs., clearance for 700x28c Zaffiro Pros, and with a wheelbase just long enough to be stable when carrying a few extra pounds. We also considered a Raleigh Cadent but couldn't find one nearby for a test ride.

Decent enough bikes but check out Jamis, Masi, Schwinn etc. before you pull the trigger. Don't know your budget but there are lots of good entry level bikes. Proper fit is more important than saving a few bucks. Check some of the posts on the road bike section.

Fujis are fine bikes, and an excellent value for the money. I don't think you can go wrong with a Newest.

Cachehiker, my wife has a Newest from before all their "sport" road bikes were Newest's with numbers...hers does NOT clear 28 tires. 25s are the biggest we can run on it.

I would also highly recommend a Fuji bike. The guys there are doing a god job at putting together bikes that are a decent value.

Having said that, shop around for a store that can fit you properly and can answer the 1000 questions you are going to have over the next few months. You're not just buying a bike, you're buying service, too.

Also, ask them if they have a club or group of riders you can ride with. This can help, a lot, especially in the beginning, with the myriad of things like the slight differences between riding a road bike and your current MTB bike. The more experienced riders may be able to offer advice or tips for commuting and touring, eating and drinking on the bike, a perhaps you can find someone to ride with while you work yourself into shape for a century ride. Plus, it's much more fun to ride with a group.