Looking for a Road Bike.
 

Hi guys,

Im new to road biking and I am looking to buy a road bike for under $400. I know its low but I am a bit short on money right now and I would still like to have a road bike. Can anyone out there suggest a bike that works?

Thanks

For that price you need to be lookingon Craigslist, or the bulletin board a your LBS.

That budget will afford you a used road bike from your local Craigslist. If you must buy used, make it a chromoly steel bicycle.

My advice to you would be to join a local bicycle co-op and have them assist you in locating a bicycle. Meanwhile, you should not limit your search to CL and the co-op. Frequently attend garage and yardsales. Also, peruse your areas many thrift and pawn shops. Be patient, relentless, and diligent. Eventually, the perfect match will surface.

Of course, OTOH, if you will be primarily cycling upon flat terrain, you could opt to purchase a nice, brand new, single speed within that price range, that will come complete with a warranty, as well as a limited number of days of free repairs and/or adjustments.

+1 that for that price you can find a decent used bike.
However, in order to have any hope of enjoying your bike, it MUST fit. Take some time to take some measurements and get an idea of what to look for. It is a dance, and there are no absolutes. This is probably the biggest risk in buying a bike sight unseen.

Bike style: Do you intend to race? Is the bike for short recreational rides, or casual road rides? Do you have any physical issues (neck, back) that might limit the type of bike you are seeking?

Here are a couple pretty reliable online bike fitting tools - you'll see that there is some variability in the recommended setup, but they will give you a general sense for what size bike will fit, and what geometry might suit your needs.

http://www.competitivecyclist.com/za...LCULATOR_INTRO
http://zinncycles.com/Zinn/index.php/archives/2141