Which bike to get?

RedDragon - I am nowhere near your size, but I bought a Giant OCR1 which is a combo of 105 and Ultegra parts. Aluminum, out of the box weighs about 18 pounds (mine is an extra small though). I got it as a 2005 leftover a couple months ago. If you check some shops they may have an 05 or even 04 model on closeout that may get you a really nice bike for less $$$. The OCR I have is an aluminum frame with carbon fork, decent ride. The only change I made was to change out the bar and stem but most people would not have to do that (I'm really small so the stock one didnt fit me).

If you check out Giant's website, you can see the parts package on the OCR models. I think the OCR 2 is a full 105 bike, but I'm not 100% sure.

Main point that I learned the hard way is test ride, test ride and then go and test ride again! If you plan to keep it for a long time, be sure it fits you!

reddragon12 said:

I'm planning on getting a road bike to ride at least 1000 to 1500 miles a year. I'm 6' Tall and weight 200lbs. I know carbon bikes are out of my price range but understand that bike weight is an issue. I also would like Shimano 105, I figure it is good componentry and in my price range. My price range is $700.00. I want it to be a bike that I will have and last for a long time, I don't want to be looking for upgrades 7 months after purchase. Once I get it that's it. Am I looking at this from the right angle? I'm stationed in Europe so there is plenty of places to ride in. Your opinions will be greatly appreciated, thanks.

reddragon12 said:

...I also would like Shimano 105, I figure it is good componentry and in my price range. My price range is $700.00...

I don't think you will find 105, Ultegra, or even Tiagra componentry on a new bike for less than $900. I just went throught the shopping process and after lots of test rides decided on a 2006 Specialized Alez for $650 (list is $710). It has a mix of Sora and Tiagra components just like the other road bikes in that price range.

I really like the fit and feel of this bike (I'm 6'2" 216 and got a 58cm frame). Sure, with an 8 cog cassete in the back and Sora shifters the shifting isn't as silky smooth as much more expensive 9 and 10 cog bikes I rode, but the job gets done and I get what I need. After the first week I was a little concerned that upshifting with my thumb might be a performance issue/distraction but now I don't it mind at all.

For 1000 or so miles a year I wouldn't worry to much about spending a tone more. 1000 a month, that would be a different story.