Road Cycling - New Buyer Q - Trek, Lemond, Litespeed, Cdale

I am looking at upgrading my old '92 Specialized Cro-moly bike. I am looking for a bike to do 10 -15 mi rides during the week, 30-40 mi on weekend and working to centuries, etc.

I have been looking at a range of bikes/materials:

Al - Trek 2200, Cdale R1000
Ti - Litespeed Teramo/Firenze
Carbon - Trek 5200
Mix - Lemond Buenos Aires

I realize that the selection will ultimately be a big factor of fit and setup but I was wondering people's experience was with these bikes - especially anything negative or things I should look for during a road test.

Thanks
Mike

Ride and fit are everything - try them all, and you should be able to tell some real differences in how they fit YOU, and how the road "feels" - something that WE can't provide you.

That said, I have the '04 Buenos Aires, and I love it. It fit me perfectly, rides great, looks great - and was a good value at that price point, IMO.

Try this site for road test tips:
http://www.chainreaction.com/roadbiketestrides.htm

Good luck, and have fun!

I have a Tuscany and like the tradition frame more than the compact frame. I considered the 5200 before I picked the Tuscany, so I'd say go with the Fireze or 5200.

There are many great bikes in that price range. I'd try several before deciding.
For long distance riding, comfort is very important. I would also look at a couple of lite touring bikes like the Gunnar Sport.

I ride a Lemond, and love it... it is a very smooth bike, and it fits me well... remember (as I'm sure everyone will drill into you here) Fit is EVERYTHING... if the bike doesn;t fit right... you will not want to ride it as much... especially if you are gonna ride centuries

jeff