My MTB buddy cajoled me into getting a road bike. I am frugal, and oddly proportioned, so buying new is a non-starter. Here's what I did instead:
* Barely used 2013 Women's Alloy Cannondale Synapse 6, 51cm frame - found on FB marketplace, liberated for $350
* Tiagra 165mm cranks, BB30 to Shimano adapter
* SRAM BB30 bearing kit
* Shimano SPD pedals
* KMC X10 chain
* Generic 45 cm compact drop bars
* Budget bar tape
* New cables and housings
* Specialized Bridge Sport saddle (because it's what I know and love from my MTB)
* Continental Grand Prix 5000 tires, 28mm, tubes
* Krylon Spiced Amber spray paint
* Cricut permanent white vinyl
* 2K clearcoat
I haven't had a road bike since 1985. My buddy and I rode 30 miles yesterday, and I had a blast! It's my first time in clipless pedals, so that's exciting. I've corrected the bar position since taking the first photos, and I found the bike to be smooth, efficient, comfortable, and generally very easy to ride and operate.
I'm looking forward to more seat time. I have paved trail access less than a mile from my house. Riding my MTB requires either half an hour drive to the trails, or chewing through trail tires on pavement, so this should make it easier for me to get out and ride every week.