Hello all. I'm looking to purchase a road bike within the next month or two. I would like to spend <$500 for it, as I'm still relatively new to cycling. I've been riding for about a month on an old family bike (Fuji Del Rey), but I'd like something of my own. I plan on using it mainly for commuting, exercise and weekend rides with friends through the city, however I would like to eventually use it competitively. I'm 5'6", 130lbs, 30" inseam, and from what I can tell I need a 49-52cm frame (if that's even relevant for the topic).
If there are any rental shops in your area, you might want to try those as well - some sell their rentals at the end of the season and buy all new bikes for the next season. If they have any unsold prior seasons' rentals you could get one for quite a bargain, and since they're from a rental shop they're usually maintained well.
