Hoggle

Next week I will finally be able to purchase my first road bike. My previous bike was a Fuji (can't remember the model) flat bar bike, that I had purchased a few years ago for about $600. It was a little on the heavy side, but I was happy until it got stolen two years ago. Needless to say, I was crushed when this happened, and have not had the opportunity to get a replacement until finally now in the upcoming week.

From a bonus coming from work, I am currently looking at a Salsa Vaya 3.https://https://salsacycles.com/bikes/vaya_3

It will be from a LBS up the street, that I've had previous good experiences with. Another big plus is that it includes a complete fitting for the bike. It seems to be what I am looking for- primarily a road bike, but also something I can ride on towpath trails with gravel, and something to eventually reach my goal of attempting a century ride at some point.

I've been reading good reviews online about this particular bike, and I'm just wondering what the opinions from here on it would be. Needless to say, next week can't come soon enough.

laserfj

If it fits, yes.
If not, no.

Cfiber

The Salsa Vaya is a very nice and capable road bike.

I predict that you will be a very proud and happy owner!

DOS

I looked at Salsa when I was shopping for quality steel at affordable price and was impressed; Soma and Surly also make some nice frames. (Like this one https://surlybikes.com/bikes/disc_trucker ). I went with Soma because ultimately I wanted more a straight road set up and was swapping components off an existing bike (frame destroyed by car) so I didn't have to worry about buying parts. I think you'll sacrifice some speed on flat roads as compared to a standard road bike, but you will have options to ride offl road on the Salsa. Also, if ever you get a jones to race, cyclocross racing tends to be a bit more low key and fun (I.e. often there is beer involved) than roadie options for newbies.

So I agree with other posts, if it fits size wise and in terms of the kind of riding you plan to do, it's a great choice. Also, dealing with an LBS you trust and with which you have had good experience is no small consideration. That complete fitting included thing is a nice additional benefit.