Originally Posted by
nickthebic
I'd first like to apologise if this is in the wrong area. I'm new here, as is evident, and I couldn't find anywhere else to ask this.
I'm looking to get into cycling first by commuting every once in a while and taking recreational rides--no more than 10 miles at a time. The problem that presents itself is that I have no bike.
So I've spent a few weeks looking around at local shops and I've narrowed it down to these choices (both from local shops) that are right about the amount I'd like to spend:
Jamis Ventura Sport: $650
http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebik...port_spec.html
Scott Speedster S50: $700
http://scottusa.com/us_en/product/82.../speedster_s50
Now I don't want to seem like I'm trying to elicit a decision out of other people, but I admit that I haven't the slightest clue, even after much research, as to which bicycle I should go with. I haven't had a chance to test out the Scott as it needs to be ordered in, but I have tested the Jamis and it appears to be a sturdy ride.
Any opinions and justifications would be much appreciated--thanks in advance.
I had about the same exact post this time last year. I really did not think I would ever go beyond "commuting every once in a while and taking recreational rides--no more than 10 miles at a time" phase. I just wanted to drop a few pounds and save some money on gas. I had a friend talk me out of buying the $700 abc bike because he said I would either totally hate it and lose interest quickly, or become obsessed with it and then wish I had more bike then the $700 bike could offer me. So I ended up buying a used but very capable bike from the mid '80's. After a few rides, I could tell this was something I was going to stick with. I've put over 2,000 miles on that bike in the last year. Now I am ready to move to the next level as far as the bike is concerned. For me, I am glad that I only spent $300 on a bike a year ago then $700. It makes it easier to justify a new bike to myself and the CFO of my house (my wife).
Another thing that I did not consider is the amount of money that I would spend on equipment, clothing, gear, etc.
Good luck with whatever you decide. Welcome to the addiction.