Hi all!

This is my first post, so go easy on me.

I've read alot of the reviews and advice for new riders, that has been very helpfull so far.
Im a "clydesdale" (6'2"-227lbs) looking for my first entry level ($800 range) road bike for rec, and eventually club riding. I've been riding an old Specialized Hardrock hybrid for the past few years, and I have finally come to realize that I crave road speed over all around practicality.
I think I have a good idea of what the best "bang for the buck" bikes there are out there right now, but I wanted to get some opinions from seasoned riders so I don't end up with too many upgrades and regrets right off the bat. :)

Thanks!

I was in a similar situation as you - I recently purchased the Airborne Thunderbolt deal ($1100 full Ultegra). I'll I've had to due is exchange the stem for a slightly shorter one (through Airborne) and swap the seat with my old one that I like more.

I can email you pics. I also got one for my wife. The frame specs are within a few mm of the Trek Madone (which we got to test ride during a Trek Travel weekend in Healdsburg).

I'd recommend the cheapest bike you can find with Ultegra shifters and deraileurs- even more bang for the buck if it is last year's 9-speed.

There is nothing wrong with 105- but the price difference between 105 and Ultegra is negligible. My wife's Specialized was about $1100 (w/ tax) with Ultegra. If you can find such a bike, the additional $300 will be worth it.

The reason for going with Ultegra over 105 is mostly psycological in my opinion. If I had it to do over again I would probably get 105, knowing what I know now. For bang for the buck for a big guy I would look at cyclocross bikes. They will usually have wheels more suited to us, and beefier frames. I looked at a Bianchi 'cross bike with full 105 in a bike shop, aluminum frame with carbon fiber fork, and it was about $650. At that, you should be able to buy a set of tires, saddle, pedals, and other stuff you need. If you ride that for a couple of years, you might be ready for something racier, and won't need to worry about beefy wheels and such. Good luck with whatever you decide.

Get the most bike you can afford, but temper than with how sure you are about the amount and type of riding you'll do.

Most of the brand name bikes (including Performance or Supergo's house brands) at that price range (assuming you're going to spend the whole $800 on the bike, and extra for helmet, shoes, shorts, pump, etc.) will be just fine for rec and beginning club riding.

Giant and Specialized both make bikes that are quite good values for starting out, though they tend to be 105 or lower components (which would probably serve you just fine for at least a year anyway). In my opinion, fit should be a much bigger concern. A bike that doesn't fit, no matter what parts are on it, will be little more than junk to you in the long run.

This time of year, you may also start seeing clearance sales out there in the world, bringing a nicer bike to hand for the same amount of money.

One thing you may need to consider at your size (smaller than my size) is that the curse of low spoke-count wheels has begun to reach into the lower price ranges. It's a cheap and easy way for manufacturers to make a bike look sportier and higher-end. Unfortunately, those wheels, especially cheaper ones, are a little more delicate than you'd want. Whatever you get, you should see if you can get 32 hole standard rim wheels put on it. There may be a charge associated with it, but the increased durability will serve you well.

The reason for going with Ultegra over 105 is mostly psycological in my opinion. If I had it to do over again I would probably get 105, knowing what I know now. For bang for the buck for a big guy I would look at cyclocross bikes. They will usually have wheels more suited to us, and beefier frames. I looked at a Bianchi 'cross bike with full 105 in a bike shop, aluminum frame with carbon fiber fork, and it was about $650. At that, you should be able to buy a set of tires, saddle, pedals, and other stuff you need. If you ride that for a couple of years, you might be ready for something racier, and won't need to worry about beefy wheels and such. Good luck with whatever you decide.

I did'nt even know "cyclocross" exsisted till I found this site. I guess the more I learn, the less I know! I'll check out the cyclocross section and study up.
Great advice everyone, thank you.