First road bike advice

gaved

Iya!!
I am just in the process of buying my first road bike but I am lost as to what is what in terms of components, and if the bikes are actually suitable for a beginner like myself,. I would greatly appreciate some advice or tips on my first road bike.
I have found a Giant Defy 3 for £549 (2009) and a Fuji Newest 1.0 for £399 (2009)
Are these bikes any good for what I am after , or should I trawl ebay for a used bike that would suit my needs?
Thanks very much

zedders

If you can afford £550 for a new bike then IMO I would get a new one. A lot of people try to buy a new bike for £200 or 300 and really are at the very bottom end of the market. Its then IMO I would say get a second hand one.

So if I were you I would go for a new bike. Only two years ago I started riding road bikes. My first bike being a Bianchi for £550 and I knew jack about bikes other than they have two wheels and you pedal to move! But I loved it. For £500 or 600 quid you should be able to find what your looking for - such as the Defy you mention. I would ask the shop to allow you to ride two or three and then pick the one you like the most. But bare in mind what you plan to do with it? Racing? Commute to work? General fitness? Sportives etc? Some bikes will be better suited to your requirements than others, and there's no reason for you to become brand loyal just yet!

Also consider it might be worth waiting a couple of months until 2010 bikes come out if your looking for more choice. Or are you after a 09 to get a better deal?

Do you have other funds set aside to back up your first road bike. Will you have enough money for pedals and shoes with cleats? Helmet, lights and clothing? Etc. Again its IMO I think you'll need a pair of gloves, shoes, and padded shoes at a min. Without them you'll compromise you riding experience.

Finally, and I've found from personal experience not all LBS are the same. I would go to several shops. Some are more helpful than others. And don't alway believe everything they say. I've been told some rigt crap just because they're trying to sell you something, and they see ''newbie'' written across your forehead.

Best of luck.

gaved

Wow!
Thanks loads for the great advice. I have 'test rode' 2 bikes, the defy 09 and the fuji. The second seems more comfortable and has shimano tiagra gears and brakes as aposed to the defy's sora and tektro. (which is best...?)
I will be using the bike to commute to work and general fitness, so i will be using it everyday
Thanks very much