re: Road bicycle recommendations for a beginner

So back to road bike versus a hybrid....aside from being able to take on different terrain, is the main benefit of the hybrid having a more upright seating position? So you lose some speed with the wider tires?

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Would you suggest someone make their first purchase blind off of bikes direct?

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yes. i've had many people purchase from them and all are happy.

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Because there are other ways to exercise besides just lifting weights jackass

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I mentioned running.

I've never ridden one, but I'll say it this way. What if you really get into riding. If you get an entry level road bike or cyclocross bike, you can set those up to cover your needs until you are advanced. And you can set them up to be more "comfortable". You can swap out stems and spacers to make your position more upright. Most riders can ride in this position and won't find it uncomfortable. See below



Not everyone has to ride like this



A hybrid bike is supposedly an good all purpose bike (and that may be what you need). But it's going to be easier to do longer rides on the road bike in the long run. They are designed to be more efficient in power transfer, wind resistance, etc. .

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Try a sidewalk bicycle instead. It would be greatly appreciated

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Seriously doe!

Go to Bicycle World and check out the Giant Defy or to Bicycle Connection and check out the Specialized Allez. They have some entry level bikes for $700-$1000. That should include a fitting as well. The last thing you want to do is guess your bike size, be wrong, and hate riding your bike. You'll also establish a relationship with a local shop which makes warranty work and repairs easier. Just a thought.

and errbody hates recumbent bikes

Listen to me, brah.

You don't need a road bike. Go to Bicycle World and tell the sales guy exactly what you are telling us. You want to get in shape and lose weight. You are just starting out. He will put you on a couple to try out. You want something ready to ride off the rack.

There are two "comfort" entry level models made by Giant: the Sedona and the Cypress. The Cypress has the narrower tires and is more for street riding. You will go faster, and that seems to be something you want. There are pure hybrids in the same price range and you will be able to absolutely fly.

My initial investment was $380 for the bike (Sedona)and $45 for the helmet. That's it. You get free tuneups for the first 6 months. Already had my first one, bike rides great. You can get a pair of padded shorts at Academy for $20, but I don't even wear them.

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Listen to me, brah.

You don't need a road bike. Go to Bicycle World and tell the sales guy exactly what you are telling us. You want to get in shape and lose weight. You are just starting out. He will put you on a couple to try out. You want something ready to ride off the rack.

There are two "comfort" entry level models made by Giant: the Sedona and the Cypress. The Cypress has the narrower tires and is more for street riding. You will go faster, and that seems to be something you want. There are pure hybrids in the same price range and you will be able to absolutely fly.

My initial investment was $380 for the bike (Sedona)and $45 for the helmet. That's it. You get free tuneups for the first 6 months. Already had my first one, bike rides great. You can get a pair of padded shorts at Academy for $20, but I don't even wear them.

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Thanks. I'm definitely going to stop by there one day on the way home from work.