While mountain bikes have gotten darn cheap in the past five or so years, road bikes have been slower to follow suit. A quick glance at any company's offerings reveals that a $1000 mountain bike and comparably priced road bike are different animals indeed--road bikes usually cost more for the same level of performance and technology. That's why the Trek 1000 is such a breath of fresh air: It's a great road bike and one of the best deals out there. It's no racing superstar or featherweight, but it is a sensibly equipped and priced road bike with the right kinds of features in the right places. To wit: a lightweight Alpha aluminum frame and fork, 8-speed Shimano STI shifting and powerful dual-pivot brakes, and a triple chainring for easy climbing of even the steepest roads. Toss in fender eyelets for nasty weather and you've got a great all-around road bike. The 1000 is also made in a pixie-like 43cm frame size, making it one of the best production bikes for small riders. It shares the same geometry as the OCLV bikes Lance Armstrong rides, and the frame is upgrade worthy if that's in your plans.