Hello all. I'm just getting into the road bike scene. My college age son just got his first road bike and I'm in the market for one. I've been lurking around here for a few weeks and decided to join and be legit. I'll be asking questions and seeking wisdom.

This will be my first road bike since I was a kid with the old Sears Free Spirit 10 speed. I really like the older lugged steel (alloy) frame bikes. Would love to have one. I have found a few but nothing has grabbed me yet. I really can't justify (two kids in college) an $800 entry level bike from a bike shop, so I'm looking for used. Considering a Bikes Direct bike. That's what my son has, though he bought it used from an individual. Nice bike, great price. The problem is that I'm vertically challenged and need a small frame. My stand over measurement is 29.25". There is very little out there in small frame bikes. I would like to get on something in the $200-$400 range and again, would like to have an older lugged bike. I just like the look. If anyone has any suggestions, fire away. Thanks.