Hi - I'm a pretty inexperienced cyclist in NYC -- live in brooklyn, and have been getting more and more into cycling lately. I have a super old crappy mountain bike that I ride to work almost every day... but looking to replace it with a decent but inexpensive road bike. I've narrowed it down to 2 options from Bikesdirect. Regardless of your opinion about ordering from them (i know there are partisans on both sides!), i was wondering if i could get some feedback...

Option 1: Dawes Lightning 1000 for $390.
Pretty standard alum. bike from what I can tell. Things I like include the 2 sets of brakes and the adjustable handlebar that you could raise up and down depending on your riding style. I could also upgrade to the Lightning 1200 for a carbon fork -- any thoughts on if this is worth $60 extra?

Option 2: Mercier Galaxy Steel for $396.
I like the more classic look of this one -- and the thinner steel frame. I'm also thinking that steel might be a better idea for the bumpy NYC streets... thoughts on this? I've heard that there often isn't much difference in weight btw alum and steel, so I'm wondering if that should be a concern at all.

Anyway, I'd love to hear any feedback and advice you all may have... thanks.

hi all - just seeing if anyone had any thoughts on this. my latest idea is to get the steel and then (if i feel like i need it) have a second pair of brake levers added to the handlebars later on. is that a big deal to do?

Amarc,

Regarding the steel verses aluminum question. Back when aluminum frames first came out they made for a pretty harsh ride compared to steel. I haven't ridden an aluminum frame in a long time so I can't say if that is still the case with todays bikes with their differerent tube diameters and shapes. My guess would be that your average steel frame will still provide a smoother ride (assuming it is using standard diameter tubing, geometry, etc, etc).

As far as the two bike you are looking at they appear to be very much entry level. If you have a very limited budget I would be more inclined to look at something used as you should be able to get something much better for that same cost.

What is your max budget?

Rich - thanks for your reply. I really don't want to spend any more than $400-$500... just looking for a bike that i can ride around the city and that can get beat up, locked outside sometimes, etc. Given the state of NYC's roads I'm definitely leaning towards the steel. I've looked around a little for used options, but it seems like you never know what you're going to get. Anyway, thanks again for the advice.