Now Is the Time to Buy a Bike

If you're looking for a new ride, now is the time to buy a bike. Just like car dealers, bicycle shops want to move their stock of 2009 models before the new 2010 bikes arrive. This means nice bikes are priced to sell.

You can find deals at large chain stores like Performance Bicycle, as well as small independent shops, where you can bargain a bit too. I suggest you head to a couple of stores and test ride a number of bicycles to find the feel and fit you want. I also suggest wearing bike shorts and bringing your own helmet for your test rides, and test the bikes on the types of terrain you plan to ride. This often means finding a hill to climb near the bike shop, and the folks at the bike store are often happy to suggest a route.

REI has reduced the price on many of its bikes, and the largest savings to be had are on road bikes. I am liking the carbon fiber Cannondale Synapse. It's designed for women's body structure and has been marked down from $1,999 to $1,599. Head to you local REI and take one for a spin.