So, after much delay, I am finally taking the plunge into cycling. It's something I have had the urge to do for quite some time but just haven't acted on it...until now. I will be going to the bike shop to get fitted for the proper frame size this week and was wondering if you all could give me some advice as to what I need to look for when getting a bike. I am looking for an entry level road bike. I currently run and my goal is to start building up to compete in duathlons. I am looking for something built well, reliable, and that won't completely burn a hole in my pocket. Thanks to any who help me out.

Dan

Alot of the mainstream brands make entry level road bikes at an affordable price, your best bet is to find out what your local bikeshop stocks then re-post here, with your options

Know thyself. If your history with excersise is consistancy. You know, you don't have a treadmill with your laundry hanging from it. If you think you'll get serious and ride a lot, then consider your purchase carefully. Don't buy a $1000 bike when you'll soon want something else (better). Spend more and get more. Ask someone to recommend a shop that's trustworthy.

Use some of the fit calculators online but remember that what constitutes proper fit is very subject to interpretation.

Get a nice used tenspeed from the seventies or eighties.

If your looking for an entry level road bike you could check out some bike stores to find a model and try and find that model cheaper online somewhere such as eBay.

Don't spend too much on your first bike as you don't know how much your going to cycle on it yet and its easy to sell a cheaper bike if you deceide its not for you, because lots of people are looking for them.

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The MOST important thing is FIT. Frame size is only one aspect, so you need to know what best feels to you: handlebar to saddle drop, total reach (neutral reach being measured to the hoods)
How much weight do you want to support on your arms/hands? They can weigh that distribution at the shop. Are the shifters on the right location? (along the bars) What cycling position do you want to achieve?
Ask as many questions as you can: saddle setback best for me? Best saddle height? Can I try different saddles? Is the gearing combination right for the kind of riding i will do? Can I bring back saddle or stem after a few days of riding? This is important 'cause IMHO the right bike fit won't apparent to you until you've put a few hundred miles on that bike...
After that, you can move to items like what kind of quality/durability do you want for shifters and derailleurs, wheels etc. In general, you can get a VERY nice entry level bike for $700-$1200 range