ninjagal

Hello,

I've been riding for almost 3 years ago with a bike club out of Northern New Jersey. Started as a raw beginner on a Trek (I dunno the model - I'm bad about that kind of thing) Hybrid that was so heavy, I named it "The Pig" 'cause it felt like it was made of Pig Iron. I got strong on that bike, but not fast. I want to be strong AND fast. I'm not looking to do anything but keep a good pace. I have been loaned by a kind friend a Trek 7500 "Fitness" bike. I had no idea what the benefits of this bike were until I rode it; it's a kazillion times lighter than The Pig and I did a metric century last October having had this bike for less than two weeks. It's held me in good stead for quite some time now, but I think my friend wants his bike back and I really need to get some back bone and buy a road bike.

SO, my friend sent me this thread from this Forum about bikes under $800.

Let's pretend this is a word association game and reply with what you think a "Not Neophyte" should look at. Give me a name. I need broader horizons than my neighborhood bike shop. Any help ya'll can provide would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

East Hill

Hello ninjagal--my first question would be whether or not you are mechanically inclined? You can get some great deals on bikes if you can fix things yourself. Craigslist and the local thrifts can be your friend . I take it you are looking to do road cycling?

Welcome to BF!

East Hill

neilfein

Welcome to the forums. Stop by the regional NE board if you're looking for rides, there are several NJ threads going there and around the forums.

ninjagal

I am totally mechanically challenged. Changing a light bulb and finally owning my own set of jumper cables is about as mechanical as I get. I know I spend more money on maintenance this way, but a person has to understand her limitations. Nah, I'll buy my bike furnished! But here's the thread or post that I was sent that turned me on to this Forum.

https://www.bikeforums.net/road-cycling/268941-new-improved-under-750-roadbike-thread.html

It's got a TON of inexpensive road bikes, and I haven't a clue as to what half of the jargon means or which bike I should favor.

But this is fun!!!! Thanks for replying so quickly.

ninjagal

BTW, neilfien, thanks for that tip about the Northern Regional Forum. I still haven't gotten around to a third of what this Forum has to offer, so any help is appreciated!

The Harry Potter movie ROCKS!

East Hill

Well, let's start at the beginning.

How tall are you (ie, what is your standover)? What size bike did your friend let you borrow?

East Hill

Blue Jays

Welcome to BikeForums.net and hopefully you enjoy it here! What kind of shop are you using for your bicycle needs? Is it a sporting good store, or is it bicycle-specific?

leob1

Where in northern NJ are you?
have you looked at the Trek FX or Pilot series?