Suggestions

[Archaea]

Originally Posted by OrangeUte

i am looking for around $1500.

You can get a decent bike for that amount. Especially if you shop deals or Ebay.

[MikeWaters]

Originally Posted by OrangeUte

i am looking for around $1500.

if you are looking to commute, you really don't need to spend that much IMO.

[MikeWaters]

how about this?

http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/...SPECIALpre.htm

If you want something more practical for the commute: longhaultrucker

http://bikesdirect.com/products/surly/longhaul.htm

[Archaea]

Originally Posted by MikeWaters

if you are looking to commute, you really don't need to spend that much IMO.

He's looking to commute and fitness. Nicer is better in the biking world.

When you buy your first new bike after decades of ignoring it, you'll find any bike, but after a while, there are distinct differences, and once you go good, you won't want a lesser bike.

Pricier bikes are usually more comfortable.

[creekster]

Originally Posted by Archaea

Pricier bikes are usually more comfortable.

YOu think? WHy so? A pricey crit frame will jar the teeth out of your head on a long tour. Comfort depends on many factors and price is not at the top of the list, IMO.

[Archaea]

Originally Posted by creekster

YOu think? WHy so? A pricey crit frame will jar the teeth out of your head on a long tour. Comfort depends on many factors and price is not at the top of the list, IMO.

Material and frame geometry are at the top of the list, but componetry also aid in making a bike fun to ride. The better components shift more quickly with easier motion.

Fit is also a key factor.

To acquire a bike that fits your basic wants and desires is a lot of work.

Campy Record versus its entry, Shimano Dura Ace versus its entry or SRAM Red Group versus entry?

Forks and seat posts can also reduce "jarring", but the better ones are pricier.

[MikeWaters]

The only thing I can tell from my new Ultegra bike is 1) it is lighter, and feels lighter 2) shifts a little more smoothly and quickly.

But this is measure in fractions of a second. Has it changed my biking experience? No.

[Archaea]

Originally Posted by MikeWaters

The only thing I can tell from my new Ultegra bike is 1) it is lighter, and feels lighter 2) shifts a little more smoothly and quickly.

But this is measure in fractions of a second. Has it changed my biking experience? No.

Probably not.

In a race or over a long distance, each action you simplify is appreciated.

For example if your rear derailleur functions effortlessly, that certainly is appreciated. Wheels that glide with ceramic ball bearings in the hubs are noticeable.

[creekster]

Originally Posted by Archaea

Material and frame geometry are at the top of the list, but componetry also aid in making a bike fun to ride. The better components shift more quickly with easier motion.

Fit is also a key factor.

To acquire a bike that fits your basic wants and desires is a lot of work.

Campy Record versus its entry, Shimano Dura Ace versus its entry or SRAM Red Group versus entry?

Forks and seat posts can also reduce "jarring", but the better ones are pricier.

I agree with this for the most part. But fun is not comfort.

[bluegoose]

Originally Posted by MikeWaters

The only thing I can tell from my new Ultegra bike is 1) it is lighter, and feels lighter 2) shifts a little more smoothly and quickly.

But this is measure in fractions of a second. Has it changed my biking experience? No.

Perhaps if you had ridden more than 100 miles in this calendar year you may notice a difference in performance and comfort.