Subject: RE: Beginner Triathelete: First time buying road bike You'll get the same answer over and again on this site. 1. ) Get a FIT. This is going to cost about $100-$200. If you are at a TREK/Specialized dealer, don't just take their word that "This trek here will fit you for sure." It may benefit you to tell the fitter you are not buying a bike that day, that you just want your measurements / fit dimensions. If somebody tells you something will fit based on your "standover," walk out. 2. ) Do some reasearch, find out what bikes will work for your body. Just because a bike says it's a "54" doesn't mean the same thing universally. 3. ) Either buy a new bike that fits, or scour the forums / ebay for a used one. (Some deals to be had right now for sure ) If you are going to be taking tri/cycling seriously, there is no reason NOT to buy 105. It is cheap and race quality that you will not have to upgrade. Going lower and you will end up spending more later. The key is RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH. Do not let money burn a hole in your pocket and buy something you won't be happy with in 6 months. Ask away, that's what we're here for. Welcome to BT by the way. |