Hey, I'm new to cycling, the only experience I have is with department store bikes. So After getting more active due to health problems forcing me to take a more pro active stance on my activity I need some advice on getting a bike.
I have been reading a lot about biking but am still pretty confused as to what I need to look for. I am going to local bike shops, but since I really don't know what I am doing I feel apprehensive about asking about a certain bike.
I'm 24, 5'4 (Short) and 145lbs. I have been biking on a department store Schwinn(not a real Schwinn I know, also I'm not fitted to any box bike at all I'm to short.). I want to do more than ride to the store, I want to take small road trips, nothing more than a day (due to health reasons I can't leave town for more than 24 hours.)
I am training for a century right now but my bike is having trouble keeping my desired pace.
So here are my choices based on reviews I have read in no particular order, my budget is probably $1,400 max.
I am looking for an endurance bike because I'm not going to run any races but I still want the option in the future, also I'm in the pacific northwest so it's varied elevation around my area and it gets cold and rains allot, but I plan to bike in all conditions.
Felt Z85
Raleigh Revenio 2.0
Trek 1.5
CAAD 8.0(?)
Surly Long Haul Trucker (This would be in the future as a second bike when I'm able to go touring)
Anyway any input would be welcome.
Thanks.
I have been reading a lot about biking but am still pretty confused as to what I need to look for. I am going to local bike shops, but since I really don't know what I am doing I feel apprehensive about asking about a certain bike.
I'm 24, 5'4 (Short) and 145lbs. I have been biking on a department store Schwinn(not a real Schwinn I know, also I'm not fitted to any box bike at all I'm to short.). I want to do more than ride to the store, I want to take small road trips, nothing more than a day (due to health reasons I can't leave town for more than 24 hours.)
I am training for a century right now but my bike is having trouble keeping my desired pace.
So here are my choices based on reviews I have read in no particular order, my budget is probably $1,400 max.
I am looking for an endurance bike because I'm not going to run any races but I still want the option in the future, also I'm in the pacific northwest so it's varied elevation around my area and it gets cold and rains allot, but I plan to bike in all conditions.
Felt Z85
Raleigh Revenio 2.0
Trek 1.5
CAAD 8.0(?)
Surly Long Haul Trucker (This would be in the future as a second bike when I'm able to go touring)
Anyway any input would be welcome.
Thanks.