>>1032643I'd suggest getting an entry level road bike with the new 2017 sora, new tiagra or 105 (new hood shape and cables routed under the bar tape) from a shop with friendly competent staff. Also get some clipless shoes (fit is the no 1 concern, don't buy online, don't limit yourself to road or mtb shoes, buy the ones that are most comfortable), and have the bike store help you adjust your fit. You can buy pedals online. They should do a basic fit for free, help you setup your cleats, etc.
You won't get the best deal and it's possible to spaghetti your way out of getting help from the shop, but it's worth paying the lbs premium for support.
Don't get memed into a 'versatile' bike. Pure road bikes are GOAT. They are also versatile.
Alternately, if you want to be flashy, you could get something higher end used. It depends on your market and how savvy you are.
Don't buy a bike you don't like. What makes you like it or not might be completely arbitrary but it's important to like it or you won't ride it.
