Road Cycling - Purchasing 1st Bike

I've decided that I'd like to road race, but first i need a bike(!) I've joined a cycling club on campus and am currently borrowing a bike. one of the guys is trying to sell me a Cannondale Saeco Team Replica 2003 for $1500 and I have no idea if this is reasonable or not. I've done some searches online and at ebay but haven't found anything comparable. I'd appreciate any help!!

Also, any tips for a newbie would be welcomed. =-) I'm planning on going to some bike shops next week to look around, but i'm concerned about getting ripped off since I have basically no knowledge of what to look for...

The main thing you need to consider is your pocketbook!! There are a lot of good bikes out there!

If you are serious about racing you should not go lower than Ultegra or 105 components (Shimano)! Frame & Wheels is what will make a big part of the proce difference and in bikes you usually do get what you pay for!! Keep in mind that last years or the year before bike is still quite up to date for most of us, so if you can find a deal on one it is worth considering. I personally do not like Canondale!! I would never own one (if given to me I would dump it). Why? I find their past policy of using mostly propriatory components obnoxious! People have gotten stranded because there wasn't a bike shop around that could work on their Canondale bike!! Stick with Shimano or Campi (I prefer Shimano - tons of parts out there!!).

All that said, Once you decide on what you can afford the ONLY THING THAT MATTERS IS FIT!! Don't get a bike that is a great deal if it doesn't fit!! You can play with the stem, seat post, bar angle, but if the FRAME doesn't fit you are in deep dodo!!!

The other thing to consider is the type of riding you are going to do. If, as you say, you are going to race, then you want a bike that is light enough and agile enough to race (yea, they cost more).

I just got a Lemond Buenos Aires (2003) for $1,500 (close to $2,00 when I was finished upgrading it). A great steel bike that is light and nimble. Others to consider are Treak & Fondarest. I personally am not a fan of "compact" road bikes. I think you get a better ride out of a fram that is more closely fitted to YOU! If you want to go that way you can look at Giant (I almost bought a TCR1 full carbon). If your pockets are really deep go for it and get a Colnago!!

Good luck and SHOP, SHOP, SHOP!! There are a lot of things to look into BEFORE you drop your charge card on the counter!!

Bill

Offer him 1000 and see what he says. There's a good chance he'll take it. It probably needs replacement parts because of regular wear and tear. Let him know that.

... I personally am not a fan of "compact" road bikes. I think you get a better ride out of a fram that is more closely fitted to YOU! ...

Bill

Whoa!

Are you suggesting that a compact frame can't be fiitted to one's exact specs?

-mark