Runner turned rider, need advice on good bike

Tribe
Tribe Posts: 2
edited January 2011 in Road buying advice
I've been running for years but a nagging achilles injury has put me out for 6 months. I started riding to stay in shape and I love it. I'm looking for suggestions on a good starter bike that could be used as an entry level racing bike. The enjoyment I get from sports is directly related to competing so I'd like something I could one day race with. I've worked up to 160 miles per week for the last several months on my hybrid bike and I feel like I've proven to myself that I can commit to the sport. I'm ready to make the leap to a decent bike. $2500 is my absolute limit. My LBS has a Specialized Tarmac Comp as a Demo bike that is barely used. I've ridden it around the parking lot and it feels great but then I don't really know what to compare it to. Is that to much bike for someone new to the sport? I've also looked at the Roubaix. Any other suggestions?

Comments

  • jonmack
    jonmack Posts: 522
    The Tarmac would be a great choice. We can all recommend our favourite brands but the best thing for you to do is go to the LBS, sit on (and ride if possible) a few of their bikes and decide which one you like the most.
  • bexley5200
    bexley5200 Posts: 692
    something with 2 wheels a frame and pedals will do
    going downhill slowly
  • alfablue
    alfablue Posts: 8,497
    If you have achilles trouble, go for easier gears (a compact and a generous sized cassette). I have managed to get myself tendonitis by overdoing it on the hills in gears that are too high! The muscles are stronger than the tendons unfortunately (at least at my age). Once they give trouble you are at increased risk of rupture, so take care.
  • tri-sexual
    tri-sexual Posts: 672
    tarmac is a race frame, more aggressive, stiffer and less comfortable
    roubaix is performance frame, more relaxed riding position, less stiff and generally more comfortable
    although the tarmac is more race orientated, the roubaix is no slouch and may be quicker for those who are less flexible and the extra comfort is ideal for rougher road surfaces where the extra comfort over long distances allows you to be fresher for longer.
    alot of the major manufacturers have similar frame designs,
    ride as many as you can, talk to fellow cyclists in clubs and choose the right frame for your needs.

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