Originally Posted by tvJefe

I recommend Bianchi for "entry level" alloy road bikes. I think for $1000, you are getting great quality, a great look, and a great name.

The Via Nirone starts at $800 with 2300 componentry, $970 with Sora or $1200 with Tiagra. A LBS could probably switch out any of those with a 105 groupset for about $1400 list.

$300 is not even entry level, man. I'm sorry. Don't waste $300 on a bike you are going to grow out of in 2 months. Spend a little more on a bike you can grow into.