Originally Posted by BengeBoy

When friends are just getting into biking, upgrading from a very casual bike, they usually have pretty non-specific goals, like, "I just want to start riding more on a better bike."

I think it's important to know what "else" they want to do. If they are pretty active and pretty sporty types, would their ultimate goal be riding centuries? Fast group rides? Or maybe commuting to work, or taking a credit card tour? Do they want to be able to fit fenders so they can ride in bad weather, or perhaps mount a rack so they can carry stuff?

Personally I think too many people end up with "fast road bikes" that are suited to group rides, athletic training and fast centuries....when not that many people really aspire to do that.

A steel 'cross bike or light touring bike (Surly Crosscheck, Salsa Casserroll, etc. etc.) is potentially more useful who might want to do all-weather commuting, some spirited weekend riding and maybe do a supported tour or short credit card weekend tour.

Compare the Specialized Roubaix with the Salsa Casserroll - both a big upgrade; both suitable for "relaxed"/more comfortable riding; but two very different bikes in terms of ultimate capability. I see more 50+'ers in Seattle riding around on Roubaix's than on Casserrolls; personally I believe more people would be happier if the trend were reversed.