I'm new; need help!

[JaniceR]

Hi!  Can anyone tell me if the Diamondback Century 2006 is a good road bike.  It costs about $500.  To me that's alot (I was gonna' just go to Walmart or Sports Authority), but the salesman in our local cycling shop said you get what you pay for and biking on a $150 bike is just not "fun".  Are Raleigh's any good?  Any suggestions?  I'm just planning on biking around town for pleasure and exercise.

[TheDaltonBoys]

Find someone you know who knows bike components, go to pawn shops, get a good "used" bike and you should be good to go....salesman I have to agree with...bikes have gone up in price and its in the most weird places too....last skydiving canopy I bought cost about $800.00-$1000.00 less than now....get a decent bike. Enjoy.....Mark of the Dalton Boys

[mestub]

Like Lance says, "It's not about the bike." But the quality you have under you will reveal itself. I recommend starting with the best bike you can afford. You should explore fit (i.e., is it comfortable for you?) and try it out. I've never ridden a Diamondback. But start with something inexpensive (Diamondback, Giant, Specialized lower ends) and see if cycling is fun for you. Caveat: All saddles are not the same. It may take several tries (and some hardening of your butt) before you find something comfortable. So don't give up.

[alfonso]

I agree with mestub. As a beginner, finding a used bike that suits you
may take time that would be better spent riding.

You won't find a bike bought in a supermarket very rewarding. I
suggest you find a bike shop that suits you, be very clear to them
about the sort of riding you want to do and be guided by them. If you
feel you're not being listened to, keep walking.

Most bikes are designed to fit males, so it may be worthwhile finding a
shop with a female salesperson who can give you her perspective.

Good luck and enjoy.

[TwoWheeledExplorer]

Janice,
I would agree with the others on all the main points. You might ask, however, what the difference is between a Schwinn (or Iron Horse, DBR, etc.)from a local Target/Wal-Mart/K-Mart or one from a local bike shop? The answer is assembly, knowlege and service. With a bike shop, your bike will be put together by people who know what they are doing, know your brand (May even ride it themselves) and want you to keep coming back, so they will give you regular tune-ups, life-time adjustments, and work with you on things like saddles, seat posts handlebars, grips, pedals and such so that your bike is most comfortable for you.

Ride safe,
Hans

www.trailpatrol.org

[Janie]

I have a Diamondback Oakpoint, hybrid type bike that I ride around town and I love it, it only has about 1000 miles on it though.  I'm new too!!

This message was edited by Janie on 6-20-06 @ 6:59 PM