[eponte01]

I am a female and looking into buying my first bike. Does anyone have sugestions with a budget of less than $600?

[edot1983]

Go to bikedirect.com
Free shipping and won't hurt wallet.

[Poolie]

Originally Posted by eponte01

I am a female and looking into buying my first bike. Does anyone have sugestions with a budget of less than $600?

What kind of riding do you plan to do?

[eponte01]

Road Riding. Would love to train for long distance. I am currently a long distance runner and do spinning classes and just want to be outside!

[Poolie]

Originally Posted by eponte01

Road Riding. Would love to train for long distance. I am currently a long distance runner and do spinning classes and just want to be outside!

Are you set on a drop bar road bike, or thinking about a flat bar hybrid? For your budget there are many nice flat bar bikes in that range. For a drop bar bike, you're almost going to have to look for a used one. If you have friend that's an experienced rider I would ask them to help you find one on Craig's List. Some people sell junk so you need someone that will know the difference.

Also, check with your locla bike shop if you have one. Many times they will have trade ins. And this time of year they might just have a clearance sale going on a new one.

[BeginnerCycling]

Welcome to the forum! For your budget, check out: Save up to 60% off Road Bikes, Titanium Road Bikes, Dura Ace Road Bikes, Ultegra Road Bikes - bikesdirect.com

[photosbymark]

The catch is fit. At least in the beginning you are going to be needing a knowledge base. Bikes direct for many old timers that know what size they need, know what they are doing and are able to work on the bike, its a perfectly sound option. Most local bike shops that are really good will let you test ride a bike, have someone around to ask a question and steer you in the right direction. Your instincts will typically tell you if the shop knows what they are talking about. Not all of them do. Yet when you find a good one the extra money you pay for the bike will be more than off set by the knowledge they will share with you. Now you should check out bikes direct anyway. You should know the premium you are paying, but the local guy has to eat too if you want something to save a ride on a nice Sat afternoon.

[eponte01]

I really appreciate all of the help and direction you have given me! Thank you so very much!!

[EvilGreg]

At that price it will be tough. Bikesdirect.com and Craigslist are probably your best bet. But if you can save another $2-300 then you can get a bike from an LBS and enjoy the benefits of an LBS.

Just My .02

[ksr5]

Welcome to forum, There is a lot of good people here who can help answer your questions.