Originally Posted by
EGBigelo
I have a drop bar road bike that I use for long "fitness" rides, but today I just started looking at drop bar bikes that can take a bigger tire. So something in the gravel or touring category. But you're right, it doesn't matter what I ride for the intended purpose of this bike. This is the first time though that I've really put any thought into the purchase. It's hard to walk into the bike shop and see all the shiny new bikes and forget what you really needed in a bike.
oh the pressure!
I agree, it can be overwhelming. you might try test rides in the used market. when I approach car shopping I start w dealers I'm not likely to buy from & which are further from my home. as I gain confidence I work closer to home & start shopping for a dealer as well as a brand & model. once I settle on a brand & model, I start shopping for a particular unit. (I always buy used cars) used bikes too actually. don't rush it. leave your checkbook & credit cards at home when you start shopping. don't shop hungry. lot's of guys & gals here, work at shops & can give you better bike shopping advice than me