I have been riding my Marin mountain bike on the road but would like to explore road biking more by actually using a road bike. This would be my first road bike. I have been looking at the road bike with the more upright position, as I don't think I'll be in a high-speed racing anytime soon, plus I like to ride longer distance too (30 miles or more). Any suggestion would be appreciated, thanks!
2007-05-01 16:52:43 · 7 answers · asked by isk 1 in Sports ➔ Cycling
There are plenty of options in that price range. If you already have a mountain bike and you want to explore the road, I suggest you get a pure road bike. You can have a road bike fit and setup for you so you are more upright, or more stretched. A good shop will be able to help you with this. Do not get a fitness of hybrid bike. You will not be able to pursue your new hobby as fully with one of these compromises.
I really like Cannondale's road line because it is very deep with models for all abilities. For about $1500, you can get a bike with an incredibly light frame and decent components. Remember that you can always upgrade components, but frames are usually longer term. Check out the CAAD9 and CAAD8 framesets. You won't be disappointed.
2007-05-02 01:26:30 · answer #1 · answered by Jay P 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i know exactly what you are going through. I spent over 15 years riding mountain bikes only and it wasn't until i got a job at a bike shop that I actually started considering road bikes. I bought mine road bike mostly with this in mind "I'll be able to rip through the trails like the wind". Yep, still mountain bike state of mind. Now, for the price range... its a pretty good range you're looking at. The Trek 1500 goes for somewhere between 900-1100 depending what shop you go to. It comes with Shimano 105 and sometimes Ultegra equipment which when you compare models, they would be at the same level as the LX and XT on the mtb side. The 1600 plus starts getting into better components and lighter frames some even carbon. Giant has the OCR and the TCR line. Both are pretty nice though the TCR is more race oriented while the OCR is more touring oriented. You can get their carbon models for about 1500-2000. Specialized, well, as much as i like their mtbs.... their road bikes ... for the price you pay.... aren't as good as lets say Trek, Giant, and other Race specific companies. You could look into Look, Pinnarello, etc... but then... you are paying more for the name. THe new Motobecane's are not too shabby... we've seen a couple come in for tune ups and the price plus components are a good deal. The company is re-inventing itself.
If you want a non specific road bike, look at the hybrids from Trek and Giant..... the FCR from giant and the 7.2-9 FX from Trek are prtty sweet. Very fast but with the same geometry of a comfortable mountain bike.
2007-05-02 12:54:50 · answer #2 · answered by vail2073 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Trek, Specialized, Giant, and KHS have great bikes in your price range
you may even be able to find a model from last year that is still in a local bike shop for a low price (that's how I buy my bikes every couple of years)
you mention a more upright riding position, check out the Specialized Roubaix series (I love my Roubaix Pro-full Dura Ace with FSA carbon cranks)
just make sure you go to the bike shop and "get fitted" to ensure many miles of safe & comfortable riding!
2007-05-02 02:36:51 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Trek, Jamis, Cannondale and Giant all have dealer locator features on their web sites. Check them out and see what you might like then find a dealer near you. Then go there and get properly fitted, talk to a knowledgeable sales person, test ride a bike or 2, then make the purchase.
I've had Treks since 1983 and have good luck with them. I'm riding about 15000 miles per year and haven't had any major problems. I even went without a car for about 3 years in Upstate NY.
2007-05-02 00:11:45 · answer #4 · answered by crazydave 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What you're considering is known as a 'hybrid'. There will be little difference between that and your mtb, other than wheels. You'll be _much_ happier on the road with a real road bike, the style with the 'drop' handlebars. Trek, Cannondale, and Giant all make excellent 'entry' level bikes for around $1000 dollars. Get the real road bike, you'll thank yourself for it later.
2007-05-02 03:06:11 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
when you do go to a bike shop make sure to tell them exactly what you want and think you will do with your new bike. If they try to get you into a bike you don't want then just go somewhere else.
2007-05-02 01:13:21 · answer #6 · answered by G L 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree with gene, racers may need cleats but regular riders can do well with mini toe clips. Cycling shoes are uncomfortable to walk in, stiff, and unnecessary. A good pair of athletic shoes work fine. Save your money unless impressing others is your goal.
2016-05-18 07:37:02 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋