Beginner Bike Selection
 

Hello everyone, I'm looking at getting into the sport and I have a few questions. I'm a college kid, so I'm on a pretty tight budget. I've been looking at a few bikes that are available in my local shops. I've ridden the Felt z100, Trek 1.1, Trek 1.2, and Specialized Allez. I don't want to spend much more than $800, because I'll be spending more money on other things (shorts, helmet, etc...) I liked the feel of all three brands, but I didn't like the components on the Trek 1.1. It didn't seem to shift smoothly at all. I understand that none of the components will really be great because of my small budget, but everything else felt better than the 1.1. Now I'm basically looking for opinions on which bikes are better. I do realize that a lot of it is user preference, but besides not liking the 1.1 I couldn't really tell much of a difference. I need some help making a decision.

Thanks, Matt

Besides the 1.1, they've all got nearly identical specs. It really comes down to which fits you best, as different manufacturers will have slightly different frame geometry.

I do recommend though, if you can save up and bump yourself up to the $1500 level, you'll have a bike that will last you through school and until you have a real job. I've not known anyone to get an entry level bike, and not upgrade once they realize they like the sport.

If you're not real sure you'll like cycling, it's probably better to go craigslist shopping and find a used bike in the entry level range, or just older, and spend maybe $400 to give it a try. All you'll lose out on is the warranty, and that only matters if you both like the sport, and don't want to upgrade, which you will. (barring finding a great deal a high end older bike)

If you want something for racing for that price will be hard to find, probable your best is CL or Ebay.

In the same price range no brand has a real advantage over the other. The most important thing is fit, followed by components. Since you've ruled out the 1.1, concentrate on the fit (although the 1.1 may have been poorly adjusted-- if you like it otherwise, tell the store & see if they can adjust it to address your concerns). If you can find someone more knowledgeable about bikes try to let them see the bikes & get their opinion. Otherwise, try to read up here on components till you are comfortable knowing the differences-- there are many threads on this. Then try to test ride as much as possible & go with your gut.

Another factor, altho less significant, is how you feel about the shops. A good shop will help you with adjustments, offer discounts on accessories, etc. after you buy a bike there. A bad shop will treat you like an annoyance.

The above being said, I'm not familiar with the bikes in question.

I am not really looking at getting into racing, at least not right away. What bike is the best bang for the buck in the $1500 range?

If I wanted a new bike. I don't think I would get the 1.1 mainly because it's got an aluminum fork as opposed to carbon.

Out of all the bikes you listed, the 1.2 is probably the best. It's got Sora instead of 2300, which lets you have 9 speeds instead of 8. That is unless you're talking about the Specialized Allez Sport which has a Sora/Tiagra mix. Depending on how much extra the 1.2 is, it may be worth the jump to Sora instead of 2300 components.

Honestly though, the best deal you're going to find is on Craigslist. You can find bikes that are a few years old for much cheaper and with better or equal components. The only downside is that you won't be supporting your LBS, you will probably have to do a little bike maintenance, and you may have to wait a bit for a good deal to pop up.

As a college student, that's the route I went. I saved money by buying used, and from there I learned how to maintain my bike. It was easy for me to learn, because I enjoy doing stuff like that. It also saves me money because I can fix or tune my own bike without having to drop it off at the shop.

In my opinion...

http://www.cannondale.com/usa/usaeng...0RA94C-CAAD9-4
or
http://www.neuvationcycling.com/product178.html (they've also got an Ultegra model)

Same principles I gave above apply. Fit, components, bike shop. But as has been said the biggest bang for the buck is a used bike if you know what you're looking at. In a college town, especially at graduation time, there should be a lot on the market.