I'm about to purchase my first road bike. It'll be used for cardio workouts, slight commuting (to work) and hopefully, eventually I'll be able to find some groups and do rides with them. I originally wanted to spend $500, but then upped it to $800, and now want to spend no more than $1,000. :)

I'm nearly set on buying the OCR2. I've weighed everything and it seems like a good bike for me to start on. A local dealer has it for $800 and I figured after a helmet, shoes, etc I'll hopefully still end up spending under $1,000. I've read good things about Giro helmets (they carry them too) and the dealer also carries Specialized shoes, which were comfortable.

Any comments on the above is welcome. Thanks!

I'm about to purchase my first road bike. It'll be used for cardio workouts, slight commuting (to work) and hopefully, eventually I'll be able to find some groups and do rides with them. I originally wanted to spend $500, but then upped it to $800, and now want to spend no more than $1,000. :)

I'm nearly set on buying the OCR2. I've weighed everything and it seems like a good bike for me to start on. A local dealer has it for $800 and I figured after a helmet, shoes, etc I'll hopefully still end up spending under $1,000. I've read good things about Giro helmets (they carry them too) and the dealer also carries Specialized shoes, which were comfortable.

Any comments on the above is welcome. Thanks!

Welcome to the club. You originally wanted to spend $500 and now your're looking at a grand....... We've all been there.

As long as the Giant fits you, it's an excellent choice.

Certain Giro helmets fit me great and other models don't. Bell and Specialized also make nice helmets. Try them on before you buy.

I'm sounding like a broken record here, fit is critical for shoes too. Most the Specialized shoes I tried have too small of a toe box for my feet. Once again, try before you buy.

It's a great sport....................enjoy....

Thanks for the info. Looks like I'll be giving the shop the go-ahead to order a 'large' OCR2 tomorrow. I'm excited. :D

Ironically enough, I called the shop today and they carry each make of helmet you mentioned. I'll be sure to give them all a try.

Thanks again!