What is the best entry level touring road bike for long cycle rides?
I am a student and therefore would like the bike to cost around £400 or not much more.
Go to your LBS (Local Bike Store) and check out their inventory and ask for some advice. A good LBS will get you on the road on a machine that suits your needs. In terms of entry level and long cycle rides the two just don't appear to go together.
If you are entry level, then you need to determine what distance you want to ride, I think you know already what distances your looking at, the question is do you have the fitness to undertake long cycle rides, because even the best bike out there won't do you any good if you are only at "entry level."
Again check it out with your LBS, and ask other riders about their experiences. And good luck, if you do get the bike enjoy it, make sure you get fitted for it also, the last thing you want to do is buy a bike and it's the wrong size.
Good Luck