Hi guys,

I'm sure you must be sick of another newbie thread! However, I have posted it because I assume what is the best newbie bike generally changes over time.

 Here is my story and then I have a few questions. I'm a newbie to road bikes.

Around 2-years ago I wanted to get fit. Running was pretty much out for me because of the impact on my joints and hence I decided to go for cycling. I was all set to get a bike when my brother said he had a specialised MTB that he no longer wanted. As I was unsure whether or not I would enjoy cycling I took it on a loan basis. I only cycle the streets, however, I came to love it! I tend to do 7-10kms 3-4 times a week and at my height I was cycling everyday.

Sadly the specialised hasn't been loved. My brother never had it serviced in years and I haven't in the last 2-years. It really does need a overhaul and that is likely to cost. This has got me thinking, really my needs are for a road bike and I certainly have the cycling bug and now want to take it a little more serious, perhaps triathlon training.

Thus, I was thinking of taking this opportunity to exchange the MTB and get a road bike. I'm fairly limited in my budget and would love a recommendation. I have about £400-500 to spend max and have done a little research, but wondered:

1 - What bike would you recommend on this budget? I have seen the Giant SCR 3.0 for £380 online, this seems well respected. Also the CLAUD BUTLER San Remo has caught my eye for £340. Can anyone make any further suggestions? I don't wish to use it for any sort of competition, just training. My specialised MTB I loved, but the road bikes are out of my range.

 2 - When do the new models come into the shops generally? I assume at this point bikes take a dive in price?

3 - What is the general thought on getting second hand bike from a specific dealer shop? Or should I stick to a new bike as someone who doesn't really know a great deal?

I do plan to visit a few stores to get knowledge on sizing and recommendations (i'm 6'1), but would love to walk in with some knowledge. What should I really look for in a reasonable road bike on my budget?

Thanks in advance for any help, feel free to redirect me to other threads if my questions are answered there.

Russ

1. Trek 1.2  Spesh Aleez or Cube Aerial  are your best bets.  Less than £470 is too cheap and will be a poor buy Heavy and poorly specced and with terrible wheels.

 2. Usually October.  Don't expect heavy discounts this year as stock levels are low everywhere.

3. Buy new.  Support your local store and he will be there to help you in the future.  You said it yourself you have limited knowledge so why risk buying online and putting it together poorly.  The difference in assembly is the difference between a good bike and a bad one 

My wife got a schwinn for 700 euro - about 550 sterling at the time. She loves it - it's as light as my bike which cost over twice as much, carbon forks, fairly decent Alex rims, Tiagra. Well worth spending a bit over your budget to get something a bit lighter.

Also definitely go to your nearest shops. You have to test it. Get a bike that doesn't fit you or is too heavy and you will ot enjoy riding as much as you might have.