I'm new here, so I might as well introduce myself. My current bike is an old Walmart mountain bike, but I'm ready to take the next step and upgrade to something nice, although I have a very limited budget. I've never ridden a road bike before, but I've recently become enamored with the idea of distance rides and actual scenery. I know I'll enjoy it because I've spent so much time on my mountain bike (I've completed many half centuries and racked up a couple thousand miles last summer, nearly all of which were along decidedly unscenic routes). I live in Hoboken right now, so if I want scenery I'm probably going to have to take a train somewhere, but I'm definitely willing to do that.

So I guess that's an introduction. I can't wait until I find the right bike for me!

Welcome aboard

Food for thought- people have done centuries on hybrids w/flat bars. If you have never ridden a drop bar, I suggest you attempt to find somewhere that rents them and go for a nice long ride. The vast majority of people who try drops get used to them easily enough, but there is a small percentage never takes a shine to them.

Hello Dodgson,

Welcome to Bike Forums from a Texas road rider.

I also plan to compete in triathlons though (I swim and run too), so I'm going to need to get used to them eventually.

Welcome to BF, Dodgson, check out the Road Cycling Forum for some ideas about the best bike to start out on for your budget. We have a good Triathlon Forum here with many good people there, check them out.

Bill