I want to buy a road bike, any tips?

I've had a nice mountain bike for some time but looking to get a road bike for riding on the road (already tried slicks on my mtb for six months and ready to splurge on a road bike). Any suggestions? I am looking in the $1400 range and preferably all carbon fiber although not against aluminum. I am a casual rider but would want to use it in some sprint triathlons

Khs, GT and Jamis have great values in Carbon Fiber road bikes. KHS has a full carbon bike, list priced at $1299.00

Get the the bike with the best wheels........that makes the biggest difference.

Everybody is different, go to a bike shop and check them out. Different makers have different frame geometry so they all fit different. Go to a shop and tell them what you want in a bike and they will help you out. After they size you try out a few different models and brands some will feel great others may not feel just right. Also don't forget about titanium it has great ride quality like steel but lighter. Carbon is great when compaired to aluminium very smooth feel on the road, but some carbon can have a dead feel on the road, thats why you gotta try different bike out before you buy.

Personally I would recommend Ti for what you are looking for in a bike casual with some sprint tri. Look a Light Speed, Merlin or Quintana Roo they make some great bikes and all there Titanium bikes are made in the USA!

BUT go to a local shop and get fitted it will make the difference between a bike you love and just a bike to ride....

What you should do is visit major bike manufacturing sites and check out what's available. Bike is a precious possession, aesthetics and performance both matter believe it or not. Even if I found a pink bike that allows me to outperform Lance (sarcasm) at a bargain price I wouldn't buy it. Few famous brands; Felt, Trek, Cannondale, Giant, Specialized. Make a list of the ones you like and go on ebay to get a price range, or go to your local bike shop and ask there. Good luck!