looking for an entry level bike

Lemond tends to run a little large, but 57cm seems a little small. Try it and compare it with a larger size. Which group does it come with? It sounds like Sora (8 speed). You should be able to come up with a 9 speed for this amount of money. Have you looked at other brands of bikes?🙂

I've just been reading online. Whats the difference between a Trek Pilot 1.0 and a Trek 1000? There about the same price, I might spend the extra $$ and get something a step up from entry level like a Trek 1200 or something similar.

well just picked up a brand new Trek 1500 58cm got it on sale for $999.

jrtalon said:

well just picked up a brand new Trek 1500 58cm got it on sale for $999.

i tried out the trek pilot, and it rides well. but i would go for a 9 or 10 speed if you are willing to spend a bit more money

realmadrid4 said:

i tried out the trek pilot, and it rides well. but i would go for a 9 or 10 speed if you are willing to spend a bit more money

I researched the lower end Pilot models 1.0 and 1.2 and I was considering the 1.2 but they offered the 1500 for under $1k so I took that since I know its lighter and has better components.

I test rode a 1500 about two weeks ago. Very nice. Shifted very smoothly. Not quite as smooth a ride as the Allez but still very nice. I also asked about the difference between the 1500 and the Pilot and they sales rep said the Pilot was a little more "comfort" oriented compared to the 1500.

So I see one of your original concerns were bike size. Try the following link and use it as a guide. But as always, go with what feels good and comfortable. This link should get you in the ballpark.

competitivecyclist.comCCYOpen ↗

jrtalon said:

Hello, I'm looking to purchases an entry level road bike for around $700. I went to the local bike shop and some guy showed me a Lemond Etape for $679 seemed like a nice bike he said I should get a size 57 frame...I don't know much about road bikes but it seemed kinda small don't know if he really knew much about road bikes either the shop seemed more of a bmx place. I'm 6' 1" (185.42cm) and my inseam is about 40.5 inches(102.87 cm). Also is the Lemond a good bike? The guy did point out that to down shift on the Etape model I have to change hand positions to the top to hit the button, is that a typical entry level problem? I'm taking a ride to another shop tomorrow and I'd like to get a better idea of what to get especially size wise. thanks

I believe your new Trek 1500 is a superb bike.