Hello. I'm looking to purchase a new roadbike. Any recommendations in the $1000-$1500 range?

Thanks.

Specialized Dolce Comp. No question. It's the perfect bike for you. But only if you can get it in red.

Seriously, this is a little like saying that you want to spend $20,000 to $30,000 on a car and asking for suggestions. You're going to have to share a little more information (what kind of riding are you going to do? how many miles? what are your approximate physical dimensions, etc.) before anyone can give you any meaningful advice and, even then, a great deal of it comes down to personal preference.

Hello. I'm looking to purchase a new roadbike. Any recommendations in the $1000-$1500 range?

Thanks.


I got three words for you: Parlee (http://www.parleecycles.com/)

I would:

Visit your local bike shop (s). Get to know the bikes, components, material and prices and decide the type of riding you want to do, what fits with that and what size you ride.

Then I would go to the classifieds on this site and consider a used bike where you can get a lot for your money and if you end up not liking it, you are out a lot less.

It is like most anything - better quality makes a better experience and an ill fitting bike can lead to dislike faster than anything.:cool:

Specialized Dolce Comp. No question. It's the perfect bike for you. But only if you can get it in red.

Seriously, this is a little like saying that you want to spend $20,000 to $30,000 on a car and asking for suggestions. You're going to have to share a little more information (what kind of riding are you going to do? how many miles? what are your approximate physical dimensions, etc.) before anyone can give you any meaningful advice and, even then, a great deal of it comes down to personal preference.

I already drive a 2007 Lexus. I'm not looking for a car. I'm looking for a bike.

Seriously though... I'm going to be riding 25-30 miles possibly working up to 50. Somewhat hilly terain but not too extreme. I'm 6' tall and about 155 lbs.

I don't like red.

I would:

Visit your local bike shop (s). Get to know the bikes, components, material and prices and decide the type of riding you want to do, what fits with that and what size you ride.

Then I would go to the classifieds on this site and consider a used bike where you can get a lot for your money and if you end up not liking it, you are out a lot less.

It is like most anything - better quality makes a better experience and an ill fitting bike can lead to dislike faster than anything.:cool:

Thanks for the advice. :)

I got three words for you: Parlee (http://www.parleecycles.com/)

no Parlee dealers in my area. :(

Trek 1500 or 1600 should be on your list to check out, a great lower priced frame that's upgradeable as you progress.

no Parlee dealers in my area. :(

Hyper, I don't know what your riding experience is, but allow me to assume 1. not too extensive and 2. not too racer-y. Most people who ride recreationally would be happiest on a light steel bike, 105 parts and normal wheels, so long as the fit is right. Check out the Lemond Sarthe http://www.lemondbikes.com/bikes/road_racing/classic_steel/sarthe.php
2 things going for it: steel rides super nice, springy, lively and tough AND it comes in more than 3 sizes, something of a rarity. No, I don't work for LeMond. The Sarthe is not for racing, it's for riding, and there's a big difference. A harsh, twitchy, fragile rig that cracks on its first spill = pure race bike.

This bike new fits your budget - when you get a bike from a shop, you own stock in that shop, ie you should expect the perks such as fit, a couple of free tune-ups, preferential service and a warranty. That **** is gold. :thumbsup:

My 2 cents. Happy riding!!

I've really been liking the Bianchi's I have seen lately. They seem to have some fantastic offerings in that range.

I got three words for you: Parlee (http://www.parleecycles.com/)

Still waiting for the other two words

Sort of like real estate - fit, fit, fit. Need to figure out about what saddle setback and total reach you need. Then you can figure the top tube, stem, setback combinations that will fit well enough. Get that wrong and you'll never be comfortable.

I suggest trying low end Campy, 105 level, etc etc. Figure out whether you care. I can use anything, but find a preference for Campy. So that was a consideration last time I bought a whole bicycle. Not the only one, but a consideration.

Next I'd try various materials and combinations. Light steel, aluminum/carbon, etc. I've been impressed with both. But you may like the feel of one over another.

A weakness on many bikes in this range seems to be the wheels, depending on what you're up to with it. I have lots of rough roads and climbing. Didn't find much that suited me. Radial front wheels really limited my range. Ended up building a set of more or less classic road wheels. I should have figured that cost into the decision.

Once you've got fit, components, and materials down, time to search websites and come up with candidates.

Still waiting for the other two words
I am looking for a parlee in this price..........;)

If you spend the next 3 months educating yourself on bike geometry/fit and the different brands generally, you can get a really great deal on Ebay (assuming you don't have an uncommon bike size). I recently picked up a 2005 Gunnar Roadie full equipped with Ultegra, and the guy threw in his wireless computer and pedals, all for $900 including LBS packing and $50 for Fedex ground. It was in 9 of 10 condition, I couldn't believe it.

Be patient and hunt Craigslist too.

If you like brand new for $1500, the Trek Pilot, Specialized Allez, and Bianchi 928 Nirone are great bikes from my experience.