Road bike suggestions?

[CyCloned]

I'd go one step further and if you do RAGBRAI get cycling sandals with SPD clips. Alas, the best sandal (original Shimano) is no longer available but there are still some pretty good ones out there. The sandal option is great in a hot Iowa summer for both on and off the bike.

Some bikers laugh at the sandals, but I really like mine. Are they as efficient as top of the line bike shoes? Of course not, but I am not a top of the line biker either. Really great for hot days, or those days you get caught in the rain. On RAGBRAI I just step right in those big tubs of water sandals and all. They are always dry in 5 minutes.

 

[Dopey]

What are you expert's thoughts on cyclocross bikes?

I like the idea of not needing a full blown heavy mountain bike to feel like my bike is durable enough for light trails and still quick enough for path riding.

Any recommendations? I've found these:
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bike.../bikes/road/cyclocross/crossrip/crossrip_comp

http://www.fujibikes.com/bike/details/feather-cx-13

http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/bikes/model/anyroad.2/14819/66152/

 

[MrPeske]

Everything said here. But I would definitely lean towards buying it at the shop. I got my Specialized at Rassy's and at the end of the day, they gave me shoes half off, free pedals, free helmet and first tune up. You won't get that online.

I would also suggest getting a cross bike with an extra set of tires. It will open you up to gravel and off road rides because if you catch the bug, which is hard not to do, you will want to ride anywhere and anything.

I would also suggest AGAINST a hybrid. Almost everyone I know that's gotten one has regretted it quickly and traded theirs in.

Another place to check is the Des Moines Bicycle Collective. They have some really good used bikes sometime at really good prices... plus it's a great organization.

Also, don't be intimmidated by clip in pedals and shoes. It's a lot easier than it looks and makes the ride much more enjoyable.


And a Taco/Steak/Beer ride NEEDS to happen

I ride a Specialized Tricross Sport, it was a $1400 bike I bought used for 800. I have it bagged out & generator hub as I ride at night often. Who rides to the Cumming Tap? I've been doing it since it was a crushed limestone trail back in the 90s...

 

[ThatllDoCy]

What are you expert's thoughts on cyclocross bikes?

I like the idea of not needing a full blown heavy mountain bike to feel like my bike is durable enough for light trails and still quick enough for path riding.

Any recommendations? I've found these:
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bike.../bikes/road/cyclocross/crossrip/crossrip_comp

http://www.fujibikes.com/bike/details/feather-cx-13

http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/bikes/model/anyroad.2/14819/66152/

Cyclocross bikes are a great way to go. Just have road and gravel tires to switch out or just buy a wheelset for trails, and swap them out.

If you are going cyclocross check out http://www.ridley-bikes.com/us/en/ as Belgium is the home of cyclocross. You are going to get a lot for your money with a Ridley as well. You will see cyclocross frames on ebay quite a bit.