I just returned from a couple of bike shops.

1. The first bike shop sold Giant Defy 3. They come in S,M, L. The guy looks at me and says, " you are a medium, gives me the bike and I stand over it and show him the lack of clearance. He says it's ok as long as you don't fall. He explained the difference in the sizes and tells me that I could ride a small, (equal to a 52), but I would feel too scrunched.He put each bike on a trainer so I could feel the difference. I get on the small and he tells me to get in a riding position. He notices where my arms are and calls the guys out of the back to look, because my arms were fully extended and that was not what he thought should happen. They looked at each other and said ultimately I could ride either, my choice.

2. Second bike shop had a KHS elite #300 2012 model for $599. It was a 54 inch bike. I stood over it and it was more comfortable that the Specialized and the Giant. The bar did not have as agressive of an angle. I did not know enough about the brand to buy it on the spot but I am thinking about going back this afternoon to buy it. It has an aluminum fram and carbon fork.

The KHS is built in China, is that cause for alarm? Is it a reputable brand?


What do you guys think is the best 2-3 endurance road bikes at the $1000 price point? Thanks