Need some advice...down to these 3
 

I'm hung up between a 2012 Newest 1.0 used (seller said never ridden because of surgery) 2014 2.1 Sportif Fuji and 2014 Fuji 2.3 Sportif

The Sportif 2.1 with taxes will cost me around $800. After that I sill need to purchase pedals which look to be around another $50. So essentially the bike will cost $850. The Newest seller said he would be fine selling the bike for $700, but that comes with pedals and cleats ($150 difference). I've been to multiple shops and my size always seems to be 58 cm although I do have long legs and short torso (6' 1/2", 35" bike inseam).


For my budget I think I would feel most comfortable with the price point of the Sportif 2.3 $700 with taxes.

My dilema is I could get the Newest for about the same price as the 2.3, but I won't have the benefit of support from a shop (my lbs has been around forever and has a great reputation). If I went with the 2.3 is it worth giving up a little in bike to have the support? Also, how do you all feel these bikes compare.

Looking forward to hearing everyone's responses. It's finally starting to warm up in Michigan and I want to buy a bike and start riding!

The Newest seems to be the most bang for the buck out of the three you listed but if you're not comfortable working on it yourself or paying someone else to fix it then I would consider one of the Sportif's. Component wise, none of them stand out but at least the Newest is a 10 speed compared to the 2.1 being 9 speed and 2.3 being 8 speed. Are you limited to Fuji bikes? If not there are probably better options out there in your price range.

I have an '06 Newest 3.0 that I bought new (as last year's model) in early '07. 18,700 miles on this bike. Except for tires, chains, and a cassette, it is all original equipment. I've had good luck with it. I like having the drop bars for multiple hand positions. Appears that the Sportif is a flat-bar model. I've since added a carbon fiber bike to the stable for weekend rides, but I still ride the Fuji for after-work rides and as a back-up bike. I've ridden several centuries on the Fuji, before the advent of the carbon fiber bike in my stable.

Save up your money for another couple of weeks to afford the bike you want. You need to be realistic: This is 21st century 'merica. You don't have to be responsible for your actions or worry how you spend your cash.

Could you please recommend some other options in my price range?