Trek Pilot 5.0

PERFECT FOR: Committed roadies whose idea of "just staying in shape" involves four-hour-plus rides on hilly roads. WHY IT'S COOL: With a full-carbon frame, vibration-damping handlebar inserts, and a hand position that's three-quarters of an inch higher than the tallest of Trek's race-oriented Madone frames, the Pilot is built for comfort. But it's also light and stiff enough that you could swap out the triple chainring for a more aggressive double and be ready for local races. BEFORE YOU BUY: The Bontrager Race wheelset underdelivers for this frame. $2,310; 18.7 lbs, 56cm; trekbikes.com

Schwinn Le Tour GSX

PERFECT FOR: Newbies ready to become local century contenders without breaking the bank. WHY IT'S COOL: With bikes this inexpensive, there are always a few shortcomings and lingering gripes: too noisy, harsh, or sluggish or all three. Not so here. In fact, you don't really notice the bike at all. The neutral handling keeps it going where you point it, and the carbon-fiber fork and seatstays take the sting out of the aluminum frame. Upshot: It's a remarkably efficient ride for the price. BEFORE YOU BUY: If you're heavy or riding in hilly country, the Tektro brake calipers are a bit too flexy to stop with any authority. Swap them out for something stiffer. $1,000; 21.8 lbs, 56cm; schwinnbike.com