Buying a road bike- advice needed

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I am signed up to do the Team In Training Triathlon in Nov. I have decided to buy a road bike because my mountain bike is not as fast as a road bike. I am 5'3 and weigh 120. I am a beginner to road biking but not to mountain biking.

I tested the Bianchi Eros Donna and the Giant OC-1 today. I liked both, felt a little more comfy on the Eros Donna. I found I had trouble with the chain popping off when using the lower gear (small gear wheel). The Giant seemed like I had to reach more to reach the shifter and brakes. I didi like that the Giant's handlebar tilted to a little more upright position. Can anyone recommend other bikes to try for my height. I don't want to spend more than $1,000 and I want something I will not outgrow in a few years.

Thank you in advance.
Sandi

Go with the Bianchi! I had tested the Giant about 2 years ago, and felt the same way. The Giant felt nice, but I was reaching a bit. I thought a few adjustments it would work out. Being that the Giant was a few bucks less- I walked out with a Giant. New stem, new seat post, blah...blah... blah.

Fast forward to August 2005. I am in the process of finding another bike.

My advice is wait till you find a bike that fit you like a nature extention of your body. Good luck in your search, and with the TNT!



I am signed up to do the Team In Training Triathlon inNov. I have decided to buy a road bike because my mountain bike is not as fast as a road bike. I am 5'3 and weigh 120. I am a beginner to road biking but not to mountain biking.

I tested the Bianchi Eros Donna and the Giant OC-1 today. I liked both, felt a little more comfy on the Eros Donna. I found I had trouble with the chain popping off when using the lower gear (small gear wheel). The Giant seemed like I had to reach more to reach the shifter and brakes. I didi like that the Giant's handlebar tilted to a little more upright position. Can anyone recommend other bikes to try for my height. I don't want to spend more than $1,000 and I want something I will not outgrow in a few years.

Thank you in advance.
Sandi