Originally Posted by
Geek.Verve
I'm getting ready to purchase my first bike, and have been reading a lot about the factors I should consider, given my own personal situation. I am 5'10" and 258 lbs. My primary goal is to improve my health and fitness level, as well as general enjoyment of rides of increasing distance and speed. My riding will pretty much be be exclusively on paved roads and MUP's. My budget is < $600.
I have decided that a drop bar road bike with a design that leans a bit toward comfort rather than racing is what I should be considering. Right now I am looking at the following:
2013 Diamondback Podium 1 Road Bike
2013 Fuji Sportif 1.7 C Road Bike
I would appreciate any input anyone may have on those particular bikes, as well as any other options I should consider. Performance Bike is one of the few major LBS's nearby, and they have been very helpful when I've stopped in to browse a couple of times recently.
Any other suggestions would be welcome as well.
Thanks!
GV
Diamond back has a slightly more modern 8spd vs 7spd drivetrain. But in the end that isn't going to matter.
I would say it's worth the small difference in price to step up to the 1.3C, to have the dual paddle shifter and 9spd.
http://www.performancebike.com/bikes...400309__400309
You'll have a hard time beating Performance's price.
Look for a double points weekend and join their membership. Should get you $80-100 or so in store credit for helmet, etc.