Greetings everyone,

I'm in the market for a new road bike. More specifically I'm in the market for a close to entry level bike.

I've been to a half-dozen LBS in my area and narrowed my choices to three bikes from two different shops. My method in elimination in the bikes and shops I'm no longer considering was based on prices, shop staff conduct and ability to answer my questions, promo gimmicks, etc.,

Obviously, I understand that not only will I be purchasing the bike, gear and accessories but also I would hope, establishing a relationship for service and accessories in the future.

I feel the two shops that I'm still considering have bikes that fit my price range, the staff are friendly and courteous, aren't using any gimmicks and all three the bikes fit and ride well....

I feel there is too much money at stake to be using a "coin toss" approach in my choice.

I'm wondering what might be the best approach in making my final decision?

Any Suggestions,

'Dee'

umm the bicycle? or is it the same bike for the same price?

Dee,

If the bikes are equal chances are the staff and location are not for the bike shops. You can base you decision on price or customer service. I used to work in a shop when I was graduating High School, and I have to say people went to our shop because it was a small little place with great service hands down. Even when a customer might have been upset for reasons unknown, we took care of it. Thats the kind of place you want to look for.

You know... If all else fails, use a really big coin.

Noot, I flipped the biggest coin I could muster.....

I think I've made my decision. Will wait until Monday when they open and see what happens.

For the record, the three bikes I've been looking at are:

Orbea ONIX T105
Specialized Roubaix (exact version I don't recall)
Specialized Tarmac Elite

The Orbea is the one I'm leaning towards at this point. All three bikes are within $100 of each other. Both shops seem willing to help out a newbie so it's a matter that the ORBEA seemed to a slightly better fit and the staff took a little more time showing me some other things to think about.

I hope I know what I'm getting into......

Hope you also have a little more money to play with after you purchase your entry level bike.

Entry level bikes get upgrades and sometimes these upgrades can be costly and cost more than if you had spent a little more on a better spec'd bike in the first place.

Believe me. In know!!!!!!! Now how do I afford that nice new shiny bling......

I do really like my Scott CR1 - Also in you price range I believe.

I wouldn't consider those entry level bikes. But I believe you are going about it the right way. I only had one true LBS that I liked. The other two shops were a no go.

I am very happy with the bike and the shop. I have already gotten some deep discounts from him and he actually rides in the local group rides unlike the other two LBS owners. Being new to this he has already given me lots of advise/tips.

One shop I went to didn't do more than move the seat for me during test rides. One shop wanted money down before they would build one of the bikes I wanted to test ride!

The LBS got me set up with pedals/shoes Friday as I felt I was ready. We re-adjusted the bike to get it dialed in a bit better and I am very happy with it now. He didn't have any of the entry level shoes in my size and they were backordered. So he sold me the Comp model shoes for $70 less so I could get them right away. I know I would not of gotten that service at the other shops.

Good luck with your decision.

With ALL other things being equal, why don't you get the one that looks the best to you? I would get the Orbea, just because there are not too many of those around here.