Answer These Questions Before visiting a showroom, define yourself a bit. Consider how you'll use the new bike once you get it, as well as where you'll pedal once you've had the machine for a while. And ask yourself a few questions to figure out what model's right. Are you: A new cyclist? Into improving fitness (medium to long rides)? Interested in touring? Training for an event? Getting into road racing or triathlon? Thinking of commuting to work/around town? Analyze Yourself Also, consider how many miles you might log per week, or year. And think about your tendencies in purchasing other things. For example, do you consistently demand the highest quality, or are you more apt to look for reasonable quality and lower cost? Do you dig trick, high-tech gadgets or are you satisfied with simpler designs? Additionally, it helps to know about how much you want to spend because that's a quick way to focus the selection process on the appropriate models. Answering these questions will ensure that you get the best bicycle. and you can search for the right models with the right features for your needs, interests and budget. And you'll soon be sailing down the pavement with a big grin on your face. Price Particulars We've asked you to think about what you'd like in a bike and what you'd be comfortable spending. Now that you have an idea how to decide what type of road machine to get, it's time to go into a store and do some tire kicking and test riding to see how the models compare in person. This will complete the picture and give you a chance to see what you get at the various price points. Here are a final few helpful tips: Shopping Guidelines Buy once. It's less expensive to get the frame, wheels and components you want initially than to upgrade later. Proper fit is much more important than getting a good deal. And only by going into a bike store to see an associate can size you and ensure that you're looking at the right size bicycles. As one master framebuilder says, "Anyone who suggests that you can be fit over the phone or internet is just demonstrating their misunderstanding of the topic." Be wary if a deal sounds too good to be true. Manufacturers pack as much value as they can into each bike model. But, they also want to sell things. Sometimes compromises are made in component specification or frame quality to reach a more attractive price point. If a bike you're interested in has parts or features that appear to be uncharacteristic for its price, try to figure out what corners were cut. Pick out the features and components that best meet your needs, then see what the bike costs. This way you'll know if your performance expectations match your budget. Be prepared to spend a little extra because usually you'll want a few important accessories with a new bike such as a water bottle and cage, a cyclo-computer, a new helmet, etc.