Beginner Road bike

Since 2001, over 90,000 cyclist's have joined Cycling Forums to discuss topics from general cycling to equipment, training, racing and travel or vacation destinations (especially in europe during the tour de france). We also feature an great deals in our online store, 100's of articles, classifieds and product reviews.

Well im looking into getting my first road bike here very soon, and would like a few opinions. Frist of all. I'm a beginer when it comes to bikes, I know very little about what's good and not good. My budget is $600 and under. I hav been lookin at new bikes, but will consider used as well. The bike would be used for commuting back and fourth to work. Also, since I'm in Houston for the time being. I might try out the ms150. I have a buddy competing, and would have some support.

I went down to my local bike shop and talked to the rep for about 30 mins about my situation. In the end he determined that the Trek 1000 would be sufficient enough for my needs.

It was an 2997 model, and he quoted me at $579. Thats right at my max. If I can find something cheaper that will benefit me just as well, that would be great.

Thanks in advance.

Anyone?

im in the same boat. im looking for my first road bike. im no expert or anything but from looking aroud i think that you might need about 1000 dallars. but i guess it all depends on what you intend to do.

It was an 2997 model, and he quoted me at $579. Thats right at my max. If I can find something cheaper that will benefit me just as well, that would be great.

Thanks in advance.
Unless you really know what you're looking for, mail order (or internet) and the used market are a bit of a crap shoot. $579 for a new Trek 1000 is quite nice, but by all means comparison shop if you want. You might save $20 or $30, but if the bike fits and you like the dealer I wouldn't waste too much time.