Road Cycling - Okay , need some advice all you tv trekkie addicts

Hi :)
This year I bought my first road bike . I didnt go all out because I figured I could lose 20 pounds . Well, Ive lost fifty pounds and have no fat so I am now ready to purchase a lighter bike . I now ride a raliegh . 500 dollars ! I think Ive worn this out since Im approaching the 4000 mile mark since mid may . The bike is hagardly looking . What is the next level ? I dont want to spend a billion dollars . I just want the next step up . any ideas you workout addicts ? :)
Jar

$8000?

$3000? $1000?


name your price first.

Hi,
give us a number. 1K? 1 1/2K? Here is a new bike that I think is very cool. http://www.trekbikes.com/bikes/2005/road/pilot50.jsp
Here is another one. http://www.sheldonbrown.com/harris/habanero.html
And one in steel... http://www.gunnarbikes.com/sport.php

Merton's right. What's your budget. I'ld go to at least the $1000-1500 range if you are looking for a good change from a $500 bike. As for the bike tell us what you liked and/or dislike about your current bike and what it is/has on it.

1000 to 1500 including any upgrade is all I can afford . And I do weigh about 200 pounds . I will use the raliegh in the bad weather . But , I think the only dumb qeustion is the one thats not asked so This is place to ask .
jar

I'd get out there and start looking at leftover 2004 models.
You just might get lucky.

Late
Thanks , some nice bikes there :)

I'd look for a mid-range sport touring bike like a Specilized Alllez Sport, Cannondale R600, Trek 2300, etc. Something worth upgrading, but speced decently from the start, Shimano 105 or Campagnolo Veloce components and clipless pedals. I'd keep the old Raleigh around as a spare.

05 Trek 2300 is sweet and rides real nice. Now is a good time to find a 04 marked down.

wait a second... those all have triples! here it comes....

Trek 2100-2300
Specialized Allez Elite or Sport i think
Canondale R600-R1000 or so
those might be a good place to start out :)

also maybe some bianchis :)

melloboy

Hi :)
This year I bought my first road bike . I didnt go all out because I figured I could lose 20 pounds . Well, Ive lost fifty pounds and have no fat so I am now ready to purchase a lighter bike . I now ride a raliegh . 500 dollars ! I think Ive worn this out since Im approaching the 4000 mile mark since mid may . The bike is hagardly looking . What is the next level ?
First off, congratulations on the weight loss and the overall cycling improvement. You are definitely ready to move up to a higher class of bike. I'm sure you will find many options in your spec range.

My question concerns your Raleigh - why is it so haggard? Bikes are certainly built to last more than 4000 miles, but only if you take care of them. Any new bike will get worn down just as quickly if you take care of it the same way.

Just a thought - good luck with your search.

55/Rad