Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 9,625
Likes: 40
From: South of Raleigh, North of New Hill, East of Harris Lake, NC
Bikes: Specialized Tarmac, Specialized Roubaix, Giant OCR-C, Specialized Stumpjumper FSR, Stumpjumper Comp, 88 & 92Nishiki Ariel, 87 Centurion Ironman, 92 Paramount, 84 Nishiki Medalist
In addition to the two brands you mentioned plus Trek and Giant that were mentioned here I'd add Raleigh, Fuji and Felt to the mix. Buy the bikes that 1) you like the best and 2) offer the best components for the price. At your price point I would insist on a carbon fork and avoid any bike with an "alloy" (aluminum) fork. It makes a considerable difference in you comfort on long rides. Otherwise, I'd look for better components and a bike shop willing to fit you to the bike. BTW, the two brand you mentioned are excellent.
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