Hi,

I am looking to buy my first road bike. I am completely ignorant when it comes to bikes and their parts which is why I need help in selecting the right bike for me.

I have looked online for what I believe are the best deals so if anyone could look through the short list and point out which is the best for it's price.

1) Vilano https://www.roadbikeoutlet.com/road-b...road-bike.html

2) Dawes https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/dawes/ltcross_x.htm

3) Dawes 2 https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/dawes/lt1500.htm

4) Motobecane https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/...e_record_x.htm

5) Mercier https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/...laxy_al_xi.htm

6) Tommaso 1 https://www.giantnerd.com/tommaso-imo...-beginner.html

7) Tommaso 2 https://www.giantnerd.com/tommaso-mon...-beginner.html

Any help would be highly appreciated. I realize the more expensive are probably so I'm wondering which one will the best to last a long time and which has the best parts.

Thanks a lot,

The Brand doesn't matter. Get a bike that fits, that you like.
Buy from a local shop that gives great service.

If you had to choose one of the 7, which would it be?

How do you know what size will fit you?

I know I am a size 50CM frame. I would order that size with whichever bike.

My choice:

https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/...e_record_x.htm

if you are 'completely ignorant about bikes and their parts' then why are you buying a bikesdirect bike that will require assembly and include no post-sale service instead of buying from a local bike shop? If you have to pay someone to assemble the bike for you and then have to pay for a fitting and tune ups, you won't be saving much.

+1

Bikedirect is a good option if you know what you're getting in terms of frame size and you can perform your own mechanical work to make the minor adjustments needed. The bikes come pretty much completely built but you want to make sure you tighten things properly and make sure the components are working properly. Fit is a really big thing to sort out and will make a bike either a dream to ride or end up as a clothing rack in the corner of your room so it's best to figure out what frame geometry you need because sizes vary by manufacturer.

reading these threads makes me depressed

There has been a disturbing plague of these threads recently. The cruelest aspect of which is they seem to actually think this is the place to come for 'expert' advice.

Definition of expert: "drip under pressure".

If you're a newbie, avoid buying your first bike online. Find a reputable (and preferably local) bicycle shop and get to know the owners/staff very well.

you'd be surprised....

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002GNWPK2/...SIN=B002GNWPK2

There is a lot to be said for buying from a local bike shop. First, you get to ride it. Not all bikes ride the same, you need to experience it for yourself. Second, you get a warranty. Third, you have the bike sized to fit you.

Unless you know what you are getting, buying online is risky. I bought my current bike frame used online, but I knew exactly what size I needed; I knew the ride of the bike; and, I knew the bike builder personally and knew he could fix it if I had a problem. Although, it was still risky.

Turned out well. I will own this bike for the rest of my life. I may own other bikes, but I will always own this one.