First "New" roadbike in decades, my $25 Schwinn LeTour, as bought

After riding a while...started upgrading, shift from 27 chrome steel wheels to 700/23 alloy, Paint, saddle and aero brake levers, really helped make it feel zippier, as well as STOPPING better, especially in the wet. Changing out the wheelset was a HUGE difference in the way the bike felt. Much more responsive off the line, less rolling resistance and the steering felt more responsive, though it did become a bit jittery on rough surfaces....the difference between BIG 27x1 1/4s and 700/23s. The old 1020 "Super Lite" frame was pretty stiff, soaked up the road pretty well.