Originally Posted by
SouthFLSteve
Anyone considering the Circuit ought to give the Schwinn Phocus 1500 a look. It's $300, has upgraded bottom bracket, handlebars and drivetrain components. Otherwise very similar. I bought one and so far very satisfied. Be prepared to do a lot of adjustments on brakes and derailleurs. Of course it's still a cheap bike but a good commuter or introductory bike imo. You can always upgrade components as they wear out or break.
Do you know if they have a version with a flat top tube? That looks like a great deal for something with an 8-speed cassette drivetrain with somewhat decent Shimano parts.