Help with first purchase
 

I've been looking into getting a road bike for a while. I have a mountain bike, but I'd like something I can use for commuting. I would use it to go to school/work which is anywhere from a 12 to 20 mile round trip. Also the occasional ride with my wife and possible century.

I've been looking at an older steel Strong Frame with various Campy components and a carbon fiber frame at the local bicycle collective. I've also been looking at a Surly Cross Check online for 750. It is listed here http://www.ksl.com/index.php?nid=218...09&ad=25733027

I also saw this new full carbon fiber frame online for 900
http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/...sprint_xii.htm

There are some hills on my commute, if that makes a difference.

I'd really appreciate any help!

The price on that Surly looks a little high, and I don't think that BD bike is a fantastic deal. I've seen full Ultegra bikes on BD for $900.

I'd recommend waiting for good deal to come along on craiglist. For $100-200 you can buy a lot of bike if you have the patience to wait for the right deal.

If you don't want to take the time to shop used, I get it. Hit some local shops and ask if they have any 2012 leftovers. Over the last month I've seen some ridiculous deals on some really good new 2012's.

Keep your local shops in mind for used bikes too. Most take trades, and sometimes you can get pretty good deals.