Hi all,

I signed up for my first sprint Tri and I don't really want to do it on my 29er MTB. Not only would I look silly, I would just be making things harder on myself.

Anyone have suggestions for a fairly cheap ($250 - $500) road bike? I am not sure whether to buy something on Craigslist, or a cheap one new from a LBS. Since I am new to biking in general, I don't know where to start, or what to look for in terms of names, components, etc. 

Any ideas would be most certainly welcome.

Thanks!

Try to find one with a 105 or better drive train. You will spend more time riding your bike and less time adjusting your bike.

I may have gotten lucky, but I bought a cheap used entry level road bike and rode it for 2yrs w/ zero problems.  True it had sora drivetrain (lowest level available) and it was NOTHING close to as good as the ultegra drivetrain I have now, but it allowed me to get out on the road and RIDE.  It gave me the opportunity to try it out and figure out whether or not I liked road biking.  I had to do very little adjustments to the shifters/brakes, the bike never gave me a bit of trouble, and I spent $250 on it.   

Figure out what size you need and search craiglist for a lightly used entry level bike that's a good bargin.  I would do it exactly the same way again if I had it to do over.

Are you wanting to start road riding or just do the sprint tri? If the former, get a road bike. If the latter,  throw some 700x35s on your 29er, lock out the fork and ride it lime you stole it. You'd be surprised how many new to triathlons start with a MTB or hybrid.  If you decide you like it, then buy a road bike.

Used will be your best bet. Most new entry level road starts in the $800-$900 range.

Dude.........I did my first 5 sprints on my MTB, and I had a road bike, so just do it !