Originally Posted by
Retro Grouch
I'd worry less about "Bang for buck" than finding the right size and exact style of bike to match your riding lifestyle.
"Road bike" isn't descriptive enough anymore. There are several different variations on the basic road bike theme. The right size and style of bike will affect your comfort, performance and enjoyment far more than a step or two better components. My advice would be to find a local shop to guide you through those decisions. It might take a few tries to find the right local bike shop to do that for you. You'll know the "right" shop when you finally find it.
It will almost certainly cost you a little more than an equivalent Bikes Direct bike but are you thinking about buying a piece of hardware or are you shopping for a lifetime of enjoyment?
You sir have really hit the ballpark with that last line. Yes I was thinking more in terms of a piece of hardware which is silly as this wasn't or shouldn't have been my purpose.
When you say a little 'more' as in how much? Some people are saying that the price in lbs could be up to 30 percent plus over bike direct.Although I still plan to check it out, last year on sale model would be perfect for me.