My advice is if you are serious about getting into cycling, start a relationship with your local bike shop(s) right now. Go in talk about your needs with someone who puts people on bikes everyday. Shop around, different brands tend to fit people better than others. Try out a few shops, a few brands, a few styles see what you like. Plan to spend $400-600 for a good entry level bike.

I’m not proud of it, but I’m guilty of finding the exact bike i liked, got fit to it, found the right size, went directly home and ordered online to save a few bucks. The downside is you don’t get the great support you would from a local shop included in the price. I know, I know i still feel bad about it obviously, but a year later I bought a Trek Madone from the store, so i made up for it. Plus, if you ride a lot, you’ll be in the shop quite a bit for chain lube, tubes, small adjustments, brake pads, gear, etc, so finding a good bike shop is a necessity. They are a wealth of information for good local places to ride too and that comes free. You also stand a chance of running into some riding mates.

Most important, get out and RIDE! Be safe and beware of side effects such as weight loss, higher energy, feeling better, looking better, and jersey tans!

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