Experts say that fit should be your most important criterion in selecting a road bicycle; start your search at a bike shop for a proper fitting. Before you go, determine how much you are willing to spend. That will depend on your personal finances and how you intend to use the bike -- road bikes for beginners and general riders cost much less than bikes for competitive cyclists. When you get to the shop, tell the staff you want to see several different bikes in your price range. In addition, keep the following in mind when shopping for a new road bike:

  • Test ride at least three bikes. Many bikes look good on paper, but you don't want to spend potentially thousands of dollars on a bike that you don't try out first. Experts say you should try out at least three bikes to get the feel for different frames, geometry and components.
  • A road bike's frame material affects price, weight and ride. Aluminum and carbon are among the most popular materials used for road bike frames, although you can get top-end frames made from titanium or bamboo. Most budget road bikes are based on aluminum frames, but experts say the light weight is often offset by a harsh, unforgiving ride. Carbon fiber is considered very stiff and great for racing. Many good mid-range bikes combine an aluminum frame with a carbon fork and/or seat post to offer a smoother ride and keep costs down.
  • Components are as crucial as brand-name frames. Shimano, Sram and Campagnolo dominate the field in contributing components such as front and rear derailleurs, chains, brakes and pedals. Each company has about six different lines, which is often the reason for varying prices on bikes with similar frames.
  • Feel free to swap components, especially the saddle. If you are new to cycling or coming from a mountain biking background, the small saddle on a road bike can take some getting used to. A bike shop will let you test out several different saddles to find the most comfortable fit. In addition, if you want higher-quality components, most bike shops can switch them out for you.
  • Buy online with care. It is possible to get great deals on road bikes online, but bear in mind that when shipped, several parts of the bike must be detached, meaning you or a nearby shop will have to assemble it when it arrives. If the size turns out to be wrong for you, you must break it down again to return it.
  • Look for older models if you're on a budget. In most cases, the 2008 model will be less expensive than the 2009 model -- even if few changes were made -- and bike shops will want to get them off their floor.
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