Making the transition
 

So recently I have got into longer road rides, and joined a local cycling club to get into road racing. I have been riding bikes for a while, recently it has been fixed gear because I ride urban a lot. I have no desire to get rid of my fixed but I want to branch out to another style of riding. This is where my question comes in, I am looking for something that is a good frame for racing with decent components that will allow my to start out and I can upgrade as I develop. What I want to avoid is getting a entry level bike, because I don't want to have to upgrade frame and everything in one or two season. Also trying to avoid buying just a a frame because I am not as familiar with road components as I am with other styles.

I do plan on going through a LBS but I also know that they are sales people and so I like to have a good idea of what options are out there and why one company or bike is better than the other.

So what am I looking for with this thread is a few bikes that are below $3500 and will allow a rider to develop and build without having to be replaced and why that bike is good or what makes it better than another.

Of the big companies, Scott, Cannondale, Trek, Felt, Cervelo, (and a few others), I don't think there is a bad bike over $2500. Each company has differing sales points, but of the companies above, and their bikes in the $2500-3500, I don't think any would fail your criteria of "allow a rider to develop and build without having to be replaced".

I would go ride some bikes and see what you like. A personal favorite choice thats readily available with your budget would be a Cannondale SuperSix Rival with upgraded wheelset.

ok, thank you i guess to put more clarification on what I am asking is what are the different sales points?


Also when looking at the bikes lets take for example the SuperSix why is there a big jump between Ultegra and the Dura-Ace?

$2500-3500 My bike falls in that range!

which one do you use?

Bianchi Mono Q 928 B4P 09'

Canondale CAAD 9 or CAAD 10 with either 105 or Ultegra components. Will be fine for your purposes and well below your $3500 budget.

You should search around on the forums for more information.

Most companies have a big jump in price between there 2nd to top of the line group and their top of the line group because some people want the best and are willing to pay a premium even if the return on the investment is low. The other reason you see a big jump is that typically the wheels and components will also be upgraded between the Ultegra and Dura Ace version of a bike.

I would say, just look at bikes with at least Shimano 105, or Sram Rival(maybe even Apex). Try a few bikes and a few shops out. Search the forums.