Looking for a budget road bike.

[mddawson]

I am considering getting a budget road bike but something of reasonable quality (ie not a Reid) and I am after some expert advice. The Cell Cyclone full carbon bike looks OK but is currently unavailable. The other bike is the XDS RX500: http://www.bikes.com.au/p/8447014/2013- ... -bike.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; or am I better off going for a budget Giant or Trek?

[usernameforme]

buy something that you like, if its your first roadie, go with one that fits both your body and your eyes (looks nice).

[Red Rider]

The Malvern Star Oppy C5 sells for under $1700 which is a similar spec to the XDS, I also saw a C7 Apex on sale for the same price.

[LM324]

What's so bad about Reid bikes? IMO Cell and XDS are in the same boat as Reid.
What's your budget like? For $1500 (same price as the one you linked) you have a huge amount of choice.

For example (from a quick search on bike exchange) you can get a 2012 Giant Defy Advanced 3 bike or a 2012 trek madone 3.1 for $1500. These bikes certainly aren't budget bikes.
Also (if you want a carbon road bike) you can get the Avanti cadent or Quantam 1 for under $1500 or for $1099 you can get an Avanti giro 4 (105 components).
I suppose it depends on what type of components you want and what type of riding you will do which will determine what type of geometry you want (agressive or relaxed/endurance) and of course whether you like the look of the bike

[TZ2102]

very happy with my cannondale caad8 105. bike fit is the most important thing. this guy is nuts but he raises some decent points. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UisTybib ... ure=relmfu" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[usernameforme]

What's so bad about Reid bikes? IMO Cell and XDS are in the same boat as Reid.

Reid don't offer a "high end" option, the most expensive bike they offer is still budget in most people's eyes. IMO this markets them as a cheap brand rather than a budget brand. Just my 2c