General Cycling Discussion - best $800 bike?

Just learned my company will reimburse up to $800 for a bike, would greatly value any recommendations in this rough price range. This would be for road cycling, and I'm a beginner--20 miles is a long ride for me.

It's a "use it or lose it" benefit for this year, so there's no reason not to spend the entire $800 :)

Thanks

retsreg

First tell us what company this is and whether they're hiring, then we'll help you with the bike.

Those new Masi Caffe* bikes are quite nice and get good ratings. And the Raleigh Clubman just got a good review in bicycletimesmag.com

http://www.raleighusa.com/bikes/road/clubman/

Both are close to your price-range.

I'm sure a bunch of folks will arrive and toss out many others. These are the two I've read very good reviews of that are in the $$ ballpark.


* - Seems the one's from last year had dropbars. Now they come with flat handlebars. Hunt around for old stock, maybe.

1 - http://earlsbikes.com/itemdetails.cfm?libid=52734

Unless you are a roadie, Trek 7500. bk

The one at your LBS that you like after you ride several. :)

A Specialized Sequoia:
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=39270&eid=117

It's an "endurance" road bike. That means it's still a road bike with curly handlebars (doesn't put you in a position like a kite into the wind on windy days like an upright handlebar bike can, and the curly bars are easier on your hands for longer rides) but it has a more upright riding position (so you aren't leaned far over) and more relaxed geometry (the handling is more stable).

If you're more of a "Type A" personality who's always just like "go go go" I'd probably go with a more racey bike like a Specialized Allez, but I think for most beginner road bikers an "endurance" road bike is the option they'd be the happiest with.

P.S. I agree with the previous poster, though - I'm making a "try out this bike" suggestion, but you should definitely test ride several and go with the one that you like the most. :-)

OK as Hexenmiester said whom do you work for and are they hiring?

if my employer was going to give me $800 towards a bike my first choice would a Bianchi Pista or San Jose.

but then again just go ride a few. it is real hard to find a "bad" bike these days especially at the price. do not get too hung up on this derailluer or that crank. just find one you like after trying a few.