So I live in a beautiful city with an extensive cycling culture and I would like to hop back on a bike. However, all I currently possess is a generic mountain bike, which is not very comfortable for riding around town. As such, I’m looking for an entry-level road bike that will not require that I invest $1,000-2,000 to get into the sport. Here are some things I have already researched:
I have gone to a couple local bike shops to be sized and try a couple models out for a spin, but their entry level price range is more like $700 and mine is closer to $400. I know the dangers associated with buying online but I have not had luck with the used market and I have to keep to my budget.
I have read many reviews on the bikes I am considering, but I don’t know enough about the components to truly compare them and decide which is the best for the money.
Please don’t contribute only “well you have a low price point so anything you get in that range is likely to be crap”, “if I were you I’d just invest the extra $500-700 and get bike X”, that is simply not an option. I know there are many hobbies where you get what you pay for, I am aware of the downfalls associated with a low entry price point. I’m just looking for help.
That being said, the bikes I am currently eyeing are as follows:
Windsor Wellington 2.0 from Bikes Direct
Motobecane Mirage Sport from Bikes Direct
DawesLight 1000 from Bikes Direct
Tommaso Tiempo
The Tommaso is my current favorite, based on user reviews and general satisfaction with the company. They have an extensive warranty which is attractive. Bikes Direct as a company has some sketchy feedback from a lot of customers, and considering I am buying sight-unseen I’m leery of a company who doesn’t have a good track record with support. But if there is one bike on that list which is a great value based on the accessories, I might risk it.
So, help a sister out, cycling dopers!