Hello,
I'm looking to purchase my first bike as a "Done-wit Cancer" gift to myself. I'm 29yo with a large build about 6'-2", 210lbs. I've looked at several LBS and am feeling a bit overwhelmed. I'm planning on spending ~$1600 or less. I've looked at:
Cannondale CAAD 9 Optimo 3
Giant TCR A1
LeMond Tourmalet
Scott Speedster S20 and others.

At this point I'm quite overwhelmed and have no idea which direction to go. SO, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks for your time.

Congratulations on your being cancer free. I know how much it can affect your life. First off, make sure the bike fits and is comfortable. If it isn't you won't ride. So you should really test ride everything you like and is in your price range. I looked at the 4 bikes you listed and the Scott and Giant were about equal in my opinion. I would probably go with the Giant. That was my first roadbike and I don't have any complaints about it. I am actually thinking about getting one of thier full carbon frames. So, just go out and test ride as many as you can and have a good time. Good luck choosing. Welcome to cycling.

At this point I'm quite overwhelmed and have no idea which direction to go. SO, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.



I would suggest reading this thread:

http://forums.roadbikereview.com/showthread.php?t=58937

It has good advice and opinions on what is good and not so good advice. But it should help you out a bit.

Congratulations on beating cancer.

I would suggest that you simply test ride everything that you can and pick what feels right and fits. My first road bike experience ended up in a poor fit due to lack of due diligence. The best way to start well is to have a bike that fits well. If it fits and you like it, you will ride it, and that's what matter (more than who made it or what components it was built with).

Congratulations on getting your health back, that's awesome!

Hey All,
Thanks for the very positive and helpful responses. I just picked up my new bike tonight. After an extensive search of at least 10 LBS's, I stumbled upon quite a deal. For the same price I could get it on Ebay, I got all the perks of a LBS with my 2005 Giant TCR C2. Lifetime free tune ups, friendly LBS staff, and a professional fit. I'm stoked!

Hey All,
Thanks for the very positive and helpful responses. I just picked up my new bike tonight. After an extensive search of at least 10 LBS's, I stumbled upon quite a deal. For the same price I could get it on Ebay, I got all the perks of a LBS with my 2005 Giant TCR C2. Lifetime free tune ups, friendly LBS staff, and a professional fit. I'm stoked!

There are some LBS deals out there that are every bit as good as any internet deal. They are just a little harder to find.

May you always have a tailwind!

Hey All,
Thanks for the very positive and helpful responses. I just picked up my new bike tonight. After an extensive search of at least 10 LBS's, I stumbled upon quite a deal. For the same price I could get it on Ebay, I got all the perks of a LBS with my 2005 Giant TCR C2. Lifetime free tune ups, friendly LBS staff, and a professional fit. I'm stoked!

Schweet! Congrats on kicking the big C. Ease into the riding and kick up mileage and speed gradually.

Great find on the bike