Another what bike thread

[XG332]

Evenjng all.

About 5 months ago I got the cycling bug again and subsequently bought a Hardtail Carrera MTB from halfords (mistake noted)
My original intention was I wanted to mostly ride trails, cross country, canals and a bit of road. The bike works well for what it is and I'm pleased with it. But now I've started to ride longer distances on the road more frequently than i get off road.
So I think I want a road bike as I'm enjoying cycling more and usually getting out every day.

My budget is about £400-£500 for the bike.
But I don't know where to start or what to even look at.
Help.

[anonymous-user]

its hard to say because as the 2012 stuff gets reduced there wil be loads of bargains around so there is every chance that you could be looking at £6-700 bikes and realistically only end up paying £500 for them.

this is a simple search on evans for road bikes from £450-£700 which gives you an idea of what to look for in terms of spec.
http://www.evanscycles.com/categories/bikes/road-b...

[XG332]

Thanks guys, going to head to the local indie and try a few frames for size.

[XG332]

Found a second hand year old Dawes giro 300. Anybody know if that bike is any good?
Again I'm a complete novice

[Gizmoish]

XG332 said:

Found a second hand year old Dawes giro 300. Anybody know if that bike is any good?
Again I'm a complete novice

It's hardly top of the range. But if the frame, forks and gears are in good condition, it will more than do the job. Until next year when you decide you need a £1k upgrade...

[XG332]

The giro was sold a few weeks ago. But the ad hadn't been updated. So back to square one.

[IroningMan]

Merlin does look good - only £540, in effect.