Hi, I'm new to triathlons...completed my first sprint tri in MN in July. I desperately need a new bike (currently on a 20yr old 10 speed). I do not need all the fancy gadgets, and don't think I can even master the aerobars yet. But I'm interested in opinions on what to look for in a new bike, or suggested models, particularly for a beginner! Should I get a tri bike or road bike? New vs used? I doubt I would use it other than training and triathlons (no super long distance rides). My budget is low...around $800... Anybody have suggestions?
Thanks!

Salexa, I just got into the road game and am training for a Sprint Tri in April....I got my bike from SuperGo.com....it's got a nice Easton Aluminum frame and Shimano 105 components, well within your budget, too. The Trek/Specialized version of this bike (as far as components go) is in the $1200 range so I think it's a good deal. Just my opinion though.

I'd recommend the best road bike you can afford. It doesn't make a lot of sense to buy a tri bike for your first bike. At your price point, you'll probably be looking at aluminum frame, Shimano 105 grouped bikes. Go test ride, and look for deals. This is a good time to look.

Absolutely a road bike. Tri bikes are more specific and really will not allow you to ride with a group (most groups get nervous about the aerobars and the inability to quickly hit the breaks).

I would visit a couple of local dealers to test ride various brands of bikes. At your price point, it will probably mean used to get a great value, but test ride bikes and decide which ones fits YOU and then you can start to look for used... Dealers might even have some of 2005-models in stock and would be willing to give you a nice deal.

Being in MN you have the change to be at one of the better Tri Shops in the country. Check out Gearwest, they'll probably recommend a road bike with some aerobars.

definitely get a road bike. It will be useful for training and group rides, and will be serviceable for triathlons, particularly if you put clip on aero bars on it, when you do a tri. If you get stay with triathlon, you can add a tri specific bike later.

I would second the Shimano 105 componet group. It is at the sweet spot of price/value. Below that, there are some performance issues. Above the 105 group, your paying more money for diminshing returns.
Any of the major manufacturer's bikes are going to be fine.The key is finding one that fits you. So first, find out from people in your area what the good bike shops are, and work with them to get the right fit.

I would not order online, unless you have a very good idea on what's going to fit you, and you know exactly what you want.

I agree w/merlin...I had seen my bike in person multiple times from a friend who had a 2003 model and we had discussed at length the bike and it's performance so I was not buying blindly. Definately shop around, do your homework and hopefully you can find one in your budget that will give you what you want.

Yeah. I agree with the previous poster. You may not like it after your first race so maybe even borrow from a friend?

I see a lot of support for the 105 components, but I found that if you can find a bike with at least an Ultegra deraileur, you'll be happier in the long run. I had 105 components on my last bike & was not thrilled with the performance.

I'd say consider looking for a road frame over a tri frame at this stage. Specialized, Giant & Trek all make nice bikes for the money you're looking to spend.

Once you start getting "upgradeitis," it's probably time to start saving for your second bike. :)