Originally Posted by
Choskins
Hey everyone,
I am new here and new to the sport as well. I am looking to get a road bike. This is my first one. I am looking for something I can train with and possibly race in the future. I have a fairly tight budget so my options are limited. I have look at trek 1.1, lexa, fuji roubaix 3.0 (2011), specialized allez and secteur, and the lower version of the diamondback podium. Can anyone help me make a good decision for my situation? I have heard to buy a good frame because you can upgrade components later. Which of these have the best frame and upgradable components? Is there another brand or bike you would recommend? Thanks everyone.
Everyone understands the need to deal with a budget. Only thing I'd caution is that if you get a bike that's too "bargain basement," it may not be comfortable and/or fun enough to ride is regularly. You certainly don't need a carbon frame, but a carbon form fork will make for a much more comfortable ride. Also, you want wheels that will stand up to riding and not need truing very often. I believe the Fuji Roubaix has a carbon fork, but I know that Trek model does not.