First Road Bike...

[martynrg]

Hi,

As some of you may have read in my Welcome thread, I've been using an old Peugeot mountain bike for about 9 months for my commute and I'm now at the stage of looking for a new bike.

I originally wanted to buy a hybrid due to the costs of buying a new road bike, however I've have come across a road bike that I fancy which is within budget (just) but I need some advice.

The bike is a Jamis 'Ventura Comp' (link)

First impressions after a short test ride were good, and to me it seems to have a decent spec. Also after reading multiple reviews on the web it seems that they are retty respectable in the US.

I can get the bike new from my LBS new at £350. Is this good? Has anyone got opinions about Jamis?

Thank you,
Martyn

 

[Sittingduck]

Never heard of 'em but the spec looks good for £350. What is different on the one you test rode and the one in the link though (in terms pf spec)?

 

[martynrg]

I think it is the same. I wouldn't know about the cassette and chain etc but as for wheels, groupset and brakeset they are the same.

I don't think there is anythin else in the market that matches it, value for money wise.

 

[Sittingduck]

very good

 

[accountantpete]

For £350 and given that it fits you -looks a bargain if you keep the bike for 2-3 years.

If you get the bug and try and upgrade in the near future be prepared to drop £200 on the original cost though.

 

[Shaun]

I've never heard of them either, but agree with the others that it looks like a good starter road bike.

At that price, it isn't going to cost the earth and if you like the feel and handling, you can upgrade to something better later on.

Cheers,
Shaun

 

[martynrg]

Thanks for all your replies/advice.

Another bike I was looking at was the Carrera Virtuoso from Halfords (don't shout!) another link, but I think I'd prefer to pay slightly extra to buy a bike from my LBS as I'd have more confidence that it will be properly put together/set up. Would anyone agree to that?

Martyn.

 

[Sittingduck]

The Carerra's have a decent reputation but wouldn't trust Halfords to set them up properly. The spec on the other one is better than the Virtuoso also - know where I'd be spending my pennies, in this situation

 

[TVC]

Another one to think about is Decathlon if you're anywhere near - highly rated bikes in your price range.

 

[martynrg]

Thankyou again for eveyones advice. Afetr umming and arring all weekend, I went I bought it today. Pick it up on Thursday!

The next few days will drag

 

[HLaB]

It says it has a Kinesis frame, my Kinesis Frame is made by Easton and it seems a good one, enjoy!