Yeah,don't buy online unless you know what you are doing.Try to find a bike with 9 speed in your price range. Many don't like the shifters on the shimano 8 speed and if you decide to upgrade later it's a more expensive proposition.But if you like them, the 8 speed is functional stuff and does suit many. If you have hills,you may want to consider a triple front chainring. Names like Fuji,Jamis and KHS if available in your area are often better bang for the buck. $1000 will go alot further if you buy clearance and trying to go too cheap on a long term bike can be a bad investment.