I found this bike here is the link is it good. http://www.bikesdirect.com/products...

Question

it is actully for 800 and i am getting it for $389

Answer 1

A Trek 1000 offers slightly better components and a carbon fork for less than $800 and it's one of the more expensive road bikes in its category. $400 is about what a Shimano 2200 equipped bike costs. If you're looking at spending $400, consider an older road bike with at least carbon fork and Tiagra if not 105 components.

Answer 2

No, it's not actually 800.  They say you should compare their product to others that retail for 800.

I don't think it's too much worthwhile.  

Shimano 2200 group it's the lowest entry of the shimano road line.  I think you could do better for 600-800 (that's the range Bikes Direct says you should compare).  

For example, this bike has a carbon fiber fork (vs cro moly on the one you put):

http://www.pricepoint.com/detail/16552-0...

And the group is Sora, which is one step higher than 2200.

Look around, I think you could find a better value around there.

Answer 3

For only $10 more the Windsor Wellington 3.0 is a better bike. For that extra ten bucks you get better derailleurs (Shimano Sora) and a carbon fiber fork.

It should shift and ride a little better than the Dawes you're looking at. So if that's really all you have to spend I would try and get the Wellington 3.0.

Keep in mind that Bikes Direct ships their bikes only partially assembled so you'll have to adjust the brakes and derailleurs or gears. That may or may not be a problem for you. There are videos on utube that may help you assemble and adjust it or you could check your local library for books on bicycle maintenance and repair.

Answer 4

the bike is advertised for a flat $389 (?), sound like a deal, "BUT" you could get a nice bike like the SE Draft (http://www.sebmx.com/2008/bike-detail.as... and build it up over time.

I do not work for SE, this is just an example - you can get any bike you want...

Answer 5

don't buy it buy a good bike from your local bike shop