Wanting to get into Cycling, looking for advice

1: A bike that fits
2: A bike within your budget. ($1000) is a decent budget

You should be able to get last years model bike at a decent discount. I know that my local bike store is offering $300-$400 off of this years models (compared to 2013) models.

I would buy new, you can get a very decent brand name bike (Trek, Felt, Etc) for $1000 and that will often include a couple tune ups.

Don't be in a hurry either, take your time and try different brands/styles etc.

I came across this deal last week, the component set alone is worth more than the bike:

http://www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product_10053_10052_533290_-1___

1200$ component set and the bike for 999.

Thanks, I keep reading in magizines that I you should buy new to have it fitted/tuned like you said. I just take what I read in a magazine with some grain of salt cause I wonder how much they print is being motivated by the advertisers. Guess I will look into deals for a new one. I would have no problem taking last years model or w/e.

I have a hard time ever seeing myself buying a bike that isn't new, mainly because of the warranty that comes with it.

Tyler is pretty spot on with fit. Definitely get something that fits.

I'd also say, don't get hung up on Carbon vs. Aluminum. Carbon is very nice, when the budget allows, but you can also get some very nice Al bikes for the price. I'm currently on a 2004 Trek 5000 (carbon), but am looking to move to a 2013 Cannondale CAAD10 (Aluminum) with a custom SRAM Red build. My team is with Cannondale though, so for full disclosure, I'm getting a discount. Aluminum bikes are more comfortable than they used to be, and are more durable and/or cheaper to replace in the event of a crash.

If you are not already, get on clipless pedals too. They have better power transfer, and are safer than toe clips. They take a little to get used to, but definitely worth the $200-$300 for a decent set of road shoes and pedals.

After Christmas is the time of year to hit up your local bike store for a good deal on a bike. They'll be clearing out the previous season models to make room for the new ones (like a car dealership), so you're likely to get good discounts. Plus, a lot of local bike stores take trade-ins, so they sell those previously owned models at usually really good prices. And you usually can get lifetime free tuneups or some kind of service package.

Whether you buy a new or used bike from them, the bike store will be able to find a ride that fits you. Tell them what your budget is and they'll work with you. Carbon and aluminum aside, a frame is a frame, but do a little research on components before you go in (gears, cranks, shifters, etc.) so you'll know if the bike you're looking at has quality components.

Carbon is really expensive (and impossible to repair if you crack it in a crash), so on your budget you should be looking at an aluminum frame with carbon forks and carbon seat posts. Do not get steel.