BikesDirectcom?

Quoted post said:

Originally posted by tidefan1956
I'm fairly new to cycling, and am interested in buying a road bike. Any help on this website. They have super prices on bikes with good components. I've looked at Treks, Giants, Fuji, KHS. Specialized, and they are all high dollar. For the $1000, that I can spend, this site has a better component set up. Please some help in this matter. I don't want to make an expensive mistake. Thanks.

If you but something off the internet that does not fit,you will have made an expensive mistake.

Quoted post said:

Originally posted by tidefan1956
I'm fairly new to cycling, and am interested in buying a road bike. Any help on this website. They have super prices on bikes with good components. I've looked at Treks, Giants, Fuji, KHS. Specialized, and they are all high dollar. For the $1000, that I can spend, this site has a better component set up. Please some help in this matter. I don't want to make an expensive mistake. Thanks.

i agree with boudreaux that if you get the wrong size its an expensive mistake, so make sure you know what size frame,cranks etc you want...not to difficult if you ask around. if you are in Australia,then you have to consider shipping(obviously) and customs. you can call customs and they will tell exactly what the taxes (import,GST, etc) will be on a complete bike if you tell them the price+shipping. other than that, Good Luck 🙂

I'd strongly consider spending your money at a good LBS, if you have one in your area. You can get advice on fit, and see and test ride bikes. When you find the one you want, you'll be able to test ride it, buy it and then take it home. This is a advantage vs just ordering something online sight unseen and then waiting for delivery, IMO.

After the sale, the LBS will be there for initial adjustments and warranty service if you have any problems with your new bike. These things could be more important than just the level of components on the spec sheet, particularly if you're getting your first serious bike.

They may also offer discounts from retail, or you can negotiate with them based on prices you're finding online. You may be surprised that the price isn't much different in the end.

Dan

I agree with everyone else. Unless you can find the bike that you're considering and ride it a bit to determine if it fits correctly, it could be a mistake. Do they offer any type of "trial period" where you can exchange a bike for a different size after you purchase it?

I will say that while I do like to support my LBS, if I can get a better deal via mail-order (and sometimes the price difference is HUGE) I'll do it.
But I also do all of the work on my bikes myself. So I'm not to concerned about the after sale service aspect. You can deal directly with the manufacturer concerning warranty issues. Although it can be a pain.

I have to agree that the LBS is the way to go. When I got my first new road bike after many years of not riding, I still found many good bikes in the sub $ 1K range. Bianchi, Giant, Cannondale, etc. all have good offerings. The LBS can get you a good fit and even if you think you might do some of your own mech down the road, it's good to get to know the local folks.

Good luck & good riding.

John

Let me weigh in here as well on the side of not buying a bike on the internet. Since you say you are new to cycling, then I assume you do not know about correct bike fit. I've ridden bikes recreationally for most of my life. Just over six months ago I paid to get a professional fitting on my bike. The difference is night and day. I had my stem changed, something I never would have done on my own, not knowing anything more about sizing than stepping over the bar to see how close to my crotch it was.

All the factors involved leg length vs torso length, seat to crank position, etc. all make it important to get the bike properly fitted. If you have your measurements already you can get a bike that fits based on those measurements. If you do not know your proper leg extension, etc, then a good LBS is essential.

I'll heed everyone's advice, and seek out a good LBS. I appreciate the imput.

Quoted post said:

Originally posted by tidefan1956
I'll heed everyone's advice, and seek out a good LBS. I appreciate the imput.

Even though you might not necessarily match every screaming deal you saw online, you can find good sales at local shops. Give them a price range, an idea of what you're looking for in terms of components, intended use, and value, and you'll do good.

Most shops I know of are always trying to get rid of a mid-level or entry-level road bike from last season.

Good luck!