Correct Road Bike

[13liverbird]

Looking to buy my first road bike and not exactly sure what im looking for. Ive seen these three in a local bike shop and just wondering on people's thoughts. I was hoping not to spend more than £500 on one.

http://www.tredz.co.uk/.Claud-Butler-Milano-2009-Road-Bike_25216.htm

http://www.tredz.co.uk/.Dawes-Giro-400-2009-Road-Bike_25016.htm

http://www.tredz.co.uk/.Raleigh-Airlite-300-2009-Road-Bike_24221.htm

Cheers if you can comment.

 

[Gerry Attrick]

You could do worse than look at the Merida 880-24. It received a 9/10 from Cycling Plus last year.

 

[Alves]

They all look much of a muchness in the photos.
One thing you should think about is the gearing. Some budget bikes have unrealistic front rings for a beginner where thet are set up for experienced and strong racing cyclists rather than up-and-coming leisure cyclists and soon-to-be competitive club riders.
Personally, I'd recommend going for a compact (50/34 front rings) or a triple when you are starting.
You may need to ask the local bike shop about this but upgrading or changing the gearing can be expensive.
Giant have been consistently the best value big manufacturer in the last few years in my experience.