Help choosing a road bike under $500

Hi all!

I’m looking for some assistance choosing a road buke under $500. Preferably under $\~450. I’m relatively new to biking generally and am looking for inputs.

Purpose for the bike:

* Work commute maybe 1-2 times a week. (<5 miles, mix of public transit + biking)
* Grocery getter
* Casual park rides (10 miles to start, maybe longer)
* At the moment, I’m not interested in endurance or racing of any kind.

I’m considering between these three options:

* [700c Giordano® Libero | Road Bike – Giordano Bicycles](https://giordano.bike/products/giordano-libero-mens)
* [Save Up to 60% Off Disc Brake Road Bikes – Motobecane Super Mirage Disc (bikesdirect.com)](https://bikesdirect.com/products/motobecane/disc-brake-roadbikes/supermirage-s-discbrake-roadbike.htm)
* [FX 1 – Trek Bikes](https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/bikes/hybrid-bikes/fitness-bikes/fx/fx-1/p/32769/?colorCode=grey)

Of these three, I’m most inclined to go with the Libero as I’ve heard the claris groupset is the highest quality. Though, given I’m not super clear on what to look for, I’m interested in other perspectives.

At the moment, I’m not considering used as nothing in my area seems well priced (or perhaps I don’t know what to look for…) Regardless, it seems more straightforward to go used for now as I educate myself and upgrade later.

As a wild card, I also have an old fixed gear fuji feather from college that I’ve considered restoring. It needs new wheels, tires and has what I believe is surface rust. I’ve thought about going to a shop or trying to repair on my own. But I feel the cost of new wheels, tires + LBS repairs may cost just as much as a new bike. Unclear if it’s worth it.

Anyways – interested in hearing everyone’s thoughts. Thanks in advance!

by cheeriocharlie