Introductions - Novice

I am a runner (50 years young) and training for a marathon. As part of my training, I want to cross train and start to do some biking. I have an old Schwin touring bike that I paid approx. $250 back in 1990. I am considering getting a good bike and possibly get really serious about the sport. I am a complete novice and just started looking today at bikes. So far, I have investigated Giant and Trek. Money isn't a big consideration in my decision, but I do want to get value if possible. I have gotten a short explanation from two different bike salespersons. I now know enough to be dangerous. I am considering a Trek 5200 or a GiantTCR Composite 1. Any advice?

The best way to figure out what you want to ride is to ride what you have for a while, and see what you want that's different. The ultimate decision will depend on you and the rides that you are planning to do.

I mostly ride a Trek 520, with Brooks saddle. I just bike commute, but I know that a lighter, stronger bike will get me to where I'm going more quickly. My tires are built for touring, and take some of the shock from rough roads without slowing me down too much.

Hi, and welcome to the forums! Whatever bike you decide on make sure it fits you correctly. Ride the bike you have and then if you decide to go for a new one you will have some idea what you will want. You sound like the strong competitve type of person who soon will be doing triathalons and such. My self I ride for health, recreation and commuting. I really have no urge for hard core competition. I can no longer ride a road bike so I have switched to a recumbent. It was the best choice I ever made. Not only is it very comfortable it is FUN. And I'm running speeds that are on par for my road bike. Welcome again to the forums!

'bent Brian

Thanks for the reply.


The best way to figure out what you want to ride is to ride what you have for a while, and see what you want that's different. The ultimate decision will depend on you and the rides that you are planning to do.

I mostly ride a Trek 520, with Brooks saddle. I just bike commute, but I know that a lighter, stronger bike will get me to where I'm going more quickly. My tires are built for touring, and take some of the shock from rough roads without slowing me down too much.

Thanks for the reply.


Hi, and welcome to the forums! Whatever bike you decide on make sure it fits you correctly. Ride the bike you have and then if you decide to go for a new one you will have some idea what you will want. You sound like the strong competitve type of person who soon will be doing triathalons and such. My self I ride for health, recreation and commuting. I really have no urge for hard core competition. I can no longer ride a road bike so I have switched to a recumbent. It was the best choice I ever made. Not only is it very comfortable it is FUN. And I'm running speeds that are on par for my road bike. Welcome again to the forums!

'bent Brian