scthstn

I currently have a GT Aggressor 1.0 that I have owned for 10 yrs. Now that bike trails have come along way over the past few yrs. I'm wanting to get a road bike that is some what light in weight. It doesnt have to be a a carbon fiber frame with all the gadgets. I find myself on the trails and streets way more often than the mountain trails.

So my question to you is, what could I get for around $800 big ones. Even a good quality used would work for me.

Thanks for your help.

Scott

RonH

For $800 you'll get an entry level bike with low end components. Craigslist may offer a better used bike for the money.

catonec 

800 bucks gives you some decent options in the used market. Ebay and craigslist are loaded w/ good deals. that being said, road bikes are quite different than mtb's. on a road bike you want to make sure the bike fits you properly or else you'll never be comfortable.
assuming you have some tools and knowledge of bicycle assembly/maintenance, I would recommend buying online to optimize your dollar BUT only if you know what size frame you need. SO what I do recommend is going to a bike shop near your house and riding a few different size bikes in the parking lot. the salesman will help determine what ballpark your in. you will be able to make minor adjustments to your fit later through the neck choice, saddle and cleat positions...
its kinda a crappy thing to do but once your lbs helps you determine your size, id still recommend buying online. I do not receive any compensation for my opinion but I do refer alot of buyers to bikes direct, I also like the motobeacons they sell. heres a few for you:

https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/...ventnoir_x.htm
https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/mercier/aerott.htm
https://bikesdirect.com/products/windsor/knight_x.htm
https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/...per_strada.htm

an extra $300 opens up the possibilities quite a bit but make sure you leave yourself some extra cash for accesssories such as helmet, seatbag, pump, clipless pedals and shoes, cycling shorts.....

SkyDog75

Go to your local bike shop. Get some sizing advice and try a few bikes. But don't use them knowing you'll buy your bike elsewhere. Give them a fair shot at the sale. Even if they can't give you the absolute lowest price you can find, a good local shop can still offer you great value -- competitive pricing plus after-sale support you can't get from a web site. I didn't buy my bike from my local shop, but I find myself spending money there pretty frequently, sometimes on stuff they do free for the folks who bought their bikes there.

Speaking of that bike I didn't buy from my local shop... I bought a like-new Bianchi San Mateo on Craigslist. And if I was working with an $800 budget, I would've had money left over for a number of the essential accessories catonec mentioned. If you have the time to be patient, you can find bargains on used bikes.

hurley1718

Check out Big Bang Bikes in West Mifflin. I bought my bike 2 years ago from them. They are very knowledgeable and are very helpful for the beginner. I bought a Scott and because it had some blemishes on the top tube I got a nice discount on it. They will also fit you for a bike.