[DVBC] Bike buying advice

[Joe Sayer]

Hi,
   
  I'm a new member.  My first ride with other people was the Brandywine Tour.  I joined the club at the course.  I did the 27 mile route on a mountain bike (with slicks).  I really enjoyed the ride and want to keep doing it.  But, the mountain bike does make it a bit of a challenge keeping up with road bikes.  I only managed to average 14mph on the Brandywine ride...at least that's what the gps monitor said (borrowed one for the ride).
   
  Anyway, I'm looking for advice on buying a good road bike.  I know that's a relative term, but any advice anybody can offer will be appreciated.  I really have no idea of what to look for.  What makes one bike better than another?  What does one type of rider look for over a different type of rider?  What kind of rider should I consider myself until I figure out what I really want?  Also, all the various components for the bike and the many composites that things are made of, have created quite a challenge to the novice.
   
  I've been told that my size, approach to riding, etc is important to share to get good advice.  So here goes:  I'm 42 years old and I'm 6'4" tall and weigh about 200 lbs.  I used to be a fairly good lightweight rower/sculler, (with heavy dieting) so you can imagine that I'm not as fit as I could be.  I'm thinking I'll get down to about 185 to 190 if I ride 2 or 3 days a week on a regular basis.  I wouldn't mind doing some "old man" racing at some point.  I've been told that I could get a really good no-name bike if I go on the internet and know what I'm looking for.  I've also been told that that's a crap shoot and good luck if I need any help after I spend my money.  I figure I'll end up spending about $1500 on my first bike, all said and done.
   
  Thanks in advance for your help.
   
  Regards,
  Joe

 		
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