Does anyone have advice for a 39 year old coming out of the dirt bike/motocross world? Over the past few years my time for enjoying my beloved two wheeled noise makers has dwindled down to a few times a year. Upon realizing that I am now only dreaming of the wind in my face more often than it actually taking place, I have considered the world of road cycling.

I need some advice as to what bike I should be looking at. Should I go for new, or test the waters with used? I am not brand loyal at this point so who or what brand should I steer clear of? I have a local bike shop a few miles from my house that pushes Treks. Should I focus on the components and not necessarily the "brand" of the bike? I am a firm believer in buying quality and maintaining equipment, but don't need a $5,000.00 bike at this point...