Introductions - More Bang for the Buck- $650

Ok I'm a potentially new road rider looking for a good recreation and commuter road bike. I have $650 to spend on a 24spd bike and am looking for the best deal for the price. After much shopping I've come to the conclusion that various bike co.s pick and choose the value of components. Almost all bikes provide an 6061 aluminum frame and Shimano sora gearing; however some have carbon forks or alum. forks, sealed or unsealed wheels, hell the $800 Novaro Divano doesn't even come with sealed wheels. Besides the position comfort and durability, what components should I look for in a road bike that are worthy of the $650 price tag? Here are some links to bikes I checked out below.

http://fujibikes.com/2008/bikes.asp?id=411#
http://www.gtbicycles.com/usa/eng/road_race#5610
http://www.rei.com/product/760865
http://www.rei.com/product/761452?vcat=REI_SEARCH

Buy the one that fits best.

I thought you were going with the fixed gear?

A carbon fork will probably be more comfortable than the aluminium fork...They all look similar. If you are going to use it as a commuter, though, you do want to make certain that you have enought clearance to run fenders/mudguards.

East Hill

I thought you were going with the fixed gear.

East Hill

I was, then I found out that 1/2 of Monterey and the surrounding cities are covered in killer hills . I want to take a bicycle maintenance course that way I can work with the gear system rather than destroy it. We'll see.

I was, then I found out that 1/2 of Monterey and the surrounding cities are covered in killer hills . I want to take a bicycle maintenance course that way I can work with the gear system rather than destroy it. We'll see.


Oh, yeah, hills are tough. I know that there are some FG folks who can hack it, but I think I am too old for it, myself. I can manage with 10 gears, but I just don't know about only one speed...

East Hill

Thanks for the words East Hill, I'll let you know what I get.:)

Thanks for the words East Hill, I'll let you know what I get.:)

Cool!

By the way, if you really want to use it as a commuter, you might want to make sure that there are eyelets for mudguards and a rack, unless you travel very light!

East Hill

Just got my 2006 New Felt F-80. Weights 19 lbs $800.00 It is awesome.
The K2 Looks close to it. But has better, wider tires.
Couldn't find out its weight.
K2 for the money.