I am a new rider and am a bit confused by the myriad of choices of bicycles.
I just did the Century Wild West 26 mile ride, my first ever, on my Electra townie, which is a "around town" kinda bike, not made for long distance, nor speed.

I really want to start training to be able to do the 100 mile ride next year. I would like information and opinions on a decent quality bike for road riding that won't break the budget. I was hoping to spend less than $600 or $700 for my first bike and progress to ebtter quality/features as my skills improve.

Any suggestions?

I would suggest going to a couple of bike shops and riding a few different models.

Bicycle Outbacks here in Waco and go see John at Sun Country Bicycles in Temple(254-771-2004).

Can't speak to brand availability in Waco area but there's *GOT* to be good options in your price range for a decent starter road bike.

Aluminum frame, Shimano drivetrain, stuff like that.

Most importantly: Spend the time (and possibly money) to get a *good* *real* bike fitting, not just a quickie "this looks good" - as the time you'll spending riding it in preparation and during 100m events will be paid back in LACK of physiological problems and in dramatically improved comfort. In Austin, I'd know the two shops to send you to but I don't know who in Waco does good bike fitting.

Next most importantly: don't be shy about figuring out that the saddle is not working out for you and looking for a replacement that fits better. Some shops have "trial sets" of saddles from different vendors so that you can ride with one on your bike for a couple days or a week and find the one that fits your sit-bone structure best. This is very important on a road bike since you spend so much on the saddle.

As you've proclaimed yourself a newbie, I'll also contribute that I hope you've budgeted for a decent pair of cycling shorts or two, and maybe some decent entry level cycling shoes also. Both of these can contribute a lot to long term happiness on long rides.

Originally Posted by Bear

I don't know who in Waco does good bike fitting.

We only have one shop.

Bear,
I bought my Townie at the Bicycle Sports Shop on Lamar in Austin.
I have been very happy with the bike and the shop, though I do not frequent them due to the distance form home.

I have had a good experience or two with our local shop, Bicycles Outback, so I am not averse to talking to them. However, I was hoping to get some feedback from folks who have been riding to give me their opinions on what brands to avoid, etc. I don't have a ton of cash to spend, so I want to try to get the best bang for my buck and a bike I can be happy(comfotable) with for the next year or two.

Thanks for the info so far guys!

Originally Posted by jcoffee

Bear,
I bought my Townie at the Bicycle Sports Shop on Lamar in Austin.
I have been very happy with the bike and the shop, though I do not frequent them due to the distance form home.

I have had a good experience or two with our local shop, Bicycles Outback, so I am not averse to talking to them. However, I was hoping to get some feedback from folks who have been riding to give me their opinions on what brands to avoid, etc. I don't have a ton of cash to spend, so I want to try to get the best bang for my buck and a bike I can be happy(comfotable) with for the next year or two.

Thanks for the info so far guys!

The only brands to avoid are usually sold at Walmart, ToyR Us etc.

You need to ride some bikes and see what is most comfortable to you. If you go look around, then some folks on here can help you out if you have specific questions, but it is impossible for us to make fit suggestions for you. Different brands are going to have differnet fit characteristics.

Originally Posted by Bear

I don't know who in Waco does good bike fitting.

several of us at the shop (bicycles outback) do.

jcoffee - have you gotten a bike yet?