Originally Posted by
cradduck
The Roubouaix that I was looking at was around $1600. I was mainly looking to justify the cost base on use. I don't own a car (mainly because I see no point) so just about everywhere I go involves a bicycle, public transportation, or both.
Right now I have two bikes to my name. An older steel road bike that has been built up to a 1x8 drivetrain with friction shifting rear gears. The bike is actually a little small for me and while it doesn't cause problems on short rides of 20 miles or less, longer rides have me really feeling it. I also have a single speed folding bike that I use to get to the bus stop on the days I don't ride or the days I take the train into downtown LA.
yeah, you need another bike. since you don't own a car, i'd get 2 bikes if i were you. however, the price portion is a tough call, something i can't even answer for myself. i really like to get a nice bike but seems to hold back. then again, i blow my money on other hobby, which is no where as beneficial as this one.
have you look at something in the 500 dollars range? they are pretty good as complete bikes. i test rode a lot of bikes and most seem to do things very similarly, with the more expensive bikes being lighter of course. i really don't gt the idea of having high end (anything costing more than 300) tuned all the time. may be it is the heavy usage that i have not experience myself but i have bikes over 20 years old and still on original parts.
take your time and do all the research bro. the longer you wait, the juicier the reward. you don't want to get it and see something else you like a month later. and make no compromise if you spend some serious cash; make sure it is the first color you want and the exact fit you desire.