[ Frame Construction and Materials ] Most bike frames are made from either cro-moly steel or aluminum. There are several differences between steel and aluminum bikes, but in the end, it boils down to what feels better when you ride. Don't let the technospeak confuse your decision.
Frame construction has a huge effect on bike performance and longevity. Look for nice clean weld joints. Messy, lumpy joints are signs of sloppy welding, and probably mean that the manufacturer got lazy elsewhere as well. Welds should be even and consistent throughout the frame. On aluminum bikes (which have larger weld joints), look for a clean, regular "fish scale" appearance. All of the bikes reviewed in this article are made of tubing from reputable suppliers, and if you stay away from the no-name department stores, chances are you shouldn't need to worry about the tubing.
Remember, you can always upgrade components in the future, but the frame is the one component you will want to keep around for quite some time. Choose wisely.
[ Componentry ] You can get lightning fast shifting and crisp gear changes from practically any group within Shimano's group lineup, and the same is true with SRAM's Grip Shift line. What differentiates the low end from the top of the line pretty much boils down to weight and durability.
Lightweight and strong wheels can make a huge difference in the ride of the bike. Other things to look out for are a comfortable saddle, a light stem, handlebar, and seatpost. Try to stay away from no-name components from mystery manufacturers. Good tires are a bonus, but don't sweat it too much when it comes to these. They're relatively easy to swap, and you're going to be replacing them every few months anyway.
[ Fit ]
Fit is tantamount. When it comes down to it, it's as important as the quality of the bike. The most expensive, most tricked out two-wheeler will be nothing but a pain in the ass, literally, if it doesn't fit you well. When shopping for a bike, be sure that you feel comfortable riding it around. Take it for a spin around the block or in the parking lot, or for a demo ride if the shop you're at offers it. Aside from making you uncomfortable, a poor fit may even injure you. Jennifer Patee, a triathalete living in San Francisco said, "I was riding my mountain bike and injured my foot, all owing to a poor pedaling position. Fixing my posture and adjusting the bike made all the difference in the world."
[ Warranties ]
Most manufactures offer a workmanship warranty of some sort, but some shops will even offer deals on service for a nominal fee, or sometimes no charge at all. Check out several different bike shops and scope out their respective situations. Remember, just like a car, a bike needs regular maintenance to run smoothly, so look into what the shop is offering.
Most bike frames are made from either cro-moly steel or aluminum. There are several differences between steel and aluminum bikes, but in the end, it boils down to what feels better when you ride. Don't let the technospeak confuse your decision.
Frame construction has a huge effect on bike performance and longevity. Look for nice clean weld joints. Messy, lumpy joints are signs of sloppy welding, and probably mean that the manufacturer got lazy elsewhere as well. Welds should be even and consistent throughout the frame. On aluminum bikes (which have larger weld joints), look for a clean, regular "fish scale" appearance. All of the bikes reviewed in this article are made of tubing from reputable suppliers, and if you stay away from the no-name department stores, chances are you shouldn't need to worry about the tubing.
Remember, you can always upgrade components in the future, but the frame is the one component you will want to keep around for quite some time. Choose wisely.
You can get lightning fast shifting and crisp gear changes from practically any group within Shimano's group lineup, and the same is true with SRAM's Grip Shift line. What differentiates the low end from the top of the line pretty much boils down to weight and durability.
Lightweight and strong wheels can make a huge difference in the ride of the bike. Other things to look out for are a comfortable saddle, a light stem, handlebar, and seatpost. Try to stay away from no-name components from mystery manufacturers. Good tires are a bonus, but don't sweat it too much when it comes to these. They're relatively easy to swap, and you're going to be replacing them every few months anyway.