preparing to buying a racing road bike & equipment - Any suggestions/feed back?

Question

open to any information and feed back
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Answer 1

As the other posters have said, fit is the most important aspect. Most of the big names in bikes make a really good product but if it doesn't fit right it won't matter if you've got the "best" bike in the world. Go to a good shop that will work with you to this end. You don't need a custom built bike but there are so many different adjustments and component choices to help make a bike fit properly that it makes a lot of sense to go to a shop willing to work with you.

I came from Mt Biking and worked as a bike mechanic for a few years. I worked on road bikes all the time and when I would test ride them none of them ever felt right. It put me off getting one for years. Then when I broke down and got a road bike, our roadie experts took the time to fit me. Everything from frame size (and many companies measure differently) to stem length to bar width to crank length to seat placement was considered. The first time I ever got on my road bike it felt perfect, I was instantly comfortable on it.

As far as what to get, I would focus on a good frameset that will perform how you want and last a long time. You can save a little money by going with lower end components but be sure to get something that is upwards compatible so when a part wears out or you want to upgrade you can trade up. On my bike, the most significant performance increasing item I upgraded was my wheelset. A light, stiff, hand built wheel will probably give you the most bang for your buck and don't forget quality tires.

Again, your local bike shop will be a great resource, don't be afraid to go in and ask questions.

Good luck.

Answer 2

I would say that fitting is more important than anything. A reputable bike shop can point you in the right direction regarding what bikes are in your price range. You should try the standard bikes such as trek, giant, etc. You might like certain things that one has to offer that the other doesn't. Within a certain price range you will get a comparable bike from the big guys. Get fitted properly on a trainer where your knee bend, seat , arm position is all tested. The best bike is one that fits properly, has details that you like, and that is in your price range.

Answer 3

Go to a reputable bike shop. See if they specialize in competitive cycling. Get fitted properly so you get maximum efficiency, comfort, handling. There are many women-specific bikes and components that you may have to sort through. Trek, Orbea, Giant, Cannondale, Fuji, Jamis, Litespeed, Seven($$$$$), Specialized, Independent Fabrication.
http://www.bicycling.com/article/0,6610,s1-1-2-13336-1,00.html
http://www.bicycling.com/article/0,6610,s1-1-2-14625-3,00.html

Answer 4

Check out Trek, Specialized and Giant bikes. If you are prepared to spend big bucks, go carbon everything, at least Durace components, Mavic wheels, and Sidi or Shimano shoes.

And don't forget your helmet! (Giro or Specialized)

Answer 5

This is the easiest way for you to do this! Go to you local bike shop to help you out! They Sell Bike's & Accessorys, Also will anwers all your Quesations about cycling!