Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
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Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby rockpaper » Thu Jan 08, 2015 4:10 pm
I was a runner but due to injury can no longer run and need to get my aerobic fitness back up.
I am looking at my first road bike. Up until now my bikes have been hybrids or mountain bikes below $500.
Two brands suggested by friends that ride were Trek (domane) and Specialized (Roubaix), however, these are possibly a bit expensive for a first bike.
I guess I should look at $1200 max, although not sure about this as I have no experience.
So, I went to Bike Exchange and the list of brands is rather long…
What would be the more appropriate brands to look at?
Trek Giant, Cannondale, and then all of the other ones that I have never heard of…
I can go to a few stores to try some out but as an example, let’s say a Trek and a Giant were in the same price range, and both were comfortable to ride, which would be a better choice?
I guess I just do not want to buy a dud so that I enjoy this sport for a long time to come.
Thanks in advance
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby Ashm12 » Thu Jan 08, 2015 6:22 pm
Possibly look at last years model of the Giant Defy 1 (2014).
Great frame and with 105 groupset its fantastic for a beginner rider or even more experienced. Being last years stock they might do a cheaper price inclusive of pedals etc.
Most importantly get a bike that you feel comfortable on and that you like the look of. (I know it sounds silly)
Just my opinion.
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby rockpaper » Thu Jan 08, 2015 7:34 pm
will check that out. I note that the Defy is considered an "endurance" bike, which suits me more- i like the idea of more comort, which is why my friends recommended the trek Domane.
I might look at the Cannondale Synapse and the Trek 1.x
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby CKinnard » Thu Jan 08, 2015 8:01 pm
You don't say how old you are, how heavy, how flexible, but all this will effect whether you get a more relaxed geometry bike or race geometry. I suggest you get on a relaxed and race geometry and see which you prefer i.e. Giant relaxed is Defy, race is TCR.
For under $2000, many will tell you to at least get a Shimano 105 groupset, and ultegra if you can.
I've played with last year's Tiagra and it doesn't seem inferior to 105, so maybe you want to compare it to 105 yourself.
The wheels you get will be basic, weighing between 1800 and 2200 grams, but they should be very durable.
You pay a premium for Trek compared to Giant. Trek lifetime frame warranty was one of the best in the business, but in recent years I am hearing the Australian rep is making claims more difficult. Anyway, alloy frames don't have as many issues as carbon, so you may want to think about how much of a premium you pay for the frame warranty.
Giant have some of the best valued low end bikes in the business.
The alloy TCR SLR with the latest ultegra (6800) groupset at $1375 is probably the best value bicycle under $2000 in Australia at the moment, imho.
http://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road-b ... /102299605" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
These are run out, so good luck if you can get one.
The same bike with the previous 105 groupset is here for $1199.
http://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road-b ... /102517072" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Here's a Giant alloy frame with Tiagra groupset under $1000.
http://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road-b ... /102353222" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
It is made of a heavier alloy than the TCRs above.
You could take a portable hanging digital scale to weigh these things too. Bikes tend to be priced on weight.
And when you start riding up steep hills, you don't want to be regretting being on a bicycle that weighs 1kg more but cost $200 less!
No doubt you may be able to pick up similar specced bike for similar prices online, but at least with Giant you'll have a store presence you can build a relationship with until you are more familiar with the mechanical side of things. And you won't have any problems offloading a used Giant alloy bicycle.
i.e. here's a Cell Bikes 105 groupset with carbon frame for $1400
http://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road-b ... /102354749" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
and a Cell with 105 groupset and alloy frame for $900
http://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road-b ... /102354731" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Final word is to make sure you get your gearing right, which will depend on your age and weight and fitness.
If you are not a spring chicken, and you want to get out amongst the hills, I'd seriously advise you get 50.34 gears on the front (called compact) and 11 or 12 up to 28 on the back.
The front chainrings can often be swapped out for not too much money...but just make sure you don't let salespeople talk you out of it.
The final word is cheaper bikes generally ahve cheap saddles. so that's another expense you might encounter in the early days.
As for Trek, you'll probably find anything they offer with the above groupsets will be more expensive by about $200-$300.
A friend recently bought their alloy 105 bike and I was unpleasantly surprised how heavy the alloy frame was, and the welds were the worst I've seen on a big name brand bike.
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby CKinnard » Thu Jan 08, 2015 8:07 pm
http://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road-b ... /102603329" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
$1049 with previous 105 not bad. it's a slightly heavier alloy than the TCR SLR but should still be reasonably light.
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby SheikYerbouti » Thu Jan 08, 2015 8:08 pm
Just read forums for a few days. You'll see the same brands pop up over and over again, and you'll start to see what are the more common/well-known ones - take the 3 above and add Avanti, Cannondale, Merida, Focus, Scott, and Felt.
Then you go for higher-end only bikes like Cervelo, Pinarello, Colnago, etc.
Don't worry so much about what is written on the frame. The bike has 3 main factors. The frame - the groupset - the wheels. You can mix and match these for whatever suits you. The above recommendation of 105 drivetrain is sound, but even the slightly lower-ranked Tiagra is perfectly good for a new rider - after all, 2014 Tiagra is like 2006 105. The frame - its fit matters more than the label on it. Wheels - are you heavy or light? Lots of factors. talk to lots of people.
Second hand is often a better buy, you can get a 2-yr old higher end bike (lighter, better gears, etc) in great condition for less than you'd pay for a new average one. After all in a few months your new average bike becomes a used average bike and you'll want a used higher-end bike.
You can even get a more "boutique" brand like Bianchi brand new in an endurance geometry for well under your budget http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/hope-isl ... 1062804672" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby GJM » Fri Jan 09, 2015 7:06 am
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby rockpaper » Fri Jan 09, 2015 9:34 am
My comments are in replies to each of you.
--
CKinnard:
I am Over 40, not as flexible as I would like, reasonably fit. Comfort will probably be better for me and I have read a number of reviews and posts about the Defy, which seems ideal. I understand I could make the TCR more relaxed by exchanging parts but that seems to be more work that I need at this stage.
As for Groupsets- my thoughts were that I would probably not notice the difference between Tiagra or 105 but I do not really know, so will just have to try them out. As for wheels- again, I will not want to swap these around just yet so will just have to go with the stock wheels, like on a car.
Thanks for the comments on Trek, both on warranty and on build quality on the lower end bicycles.
On the options- Defy and TCR you presented. I understand the TCR is the more aggressive bike but looking at the proportions, they seem very similar. And, I understand how 1 kg makes a difference- I now do (ultra)lightweight backpacking- much better than carrying extra kilos. I think I will try both out, anyway.
Online (e.g. Cell) versus store- I think for now I will stick with a store as I do not know enough to by online…
On the gearing- well, never thought of any of that. I will need to read up on this some more but I appreciate your comments. My wife is into ultramarathons so I will probably need to ride around the high plains in Victoria, so hills will be in the picture…
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SheikYerbouti:
Love the comment “Trek/Giant/Specialised are like Mazdas”.
I am not that worried about the brand, except to ensure I do not get a brand that is not well regarded. It seems the ones I thought about seem to be fine. I am going to look at the Cannondale Synapse, as well, as I read that they are more relaxed, as well.
I also assume that most of the cycle shops will be selling reputable brands, so should just look at anything in my price range.
Your comment on second-hand bikes is concise and worth considering. I had considered the used higher-end bike but there are not many around that are “comfort” styles. Still, I do not have to buy it within a day and have time to look around. Maybe use the Wanted section in the forum.
Mixing and matching parts sounds like it might be a bit more effort and add cost, and I do not really have the experience to do this. It would be interesting to talk to someone at a store about this, too.
Boutique brands- well, now I know one more brand to look at!
--
GJM:
I am Over 40, not as flexible as I would like, reasonably fit.
However, I do not know what the different riding positions feel like so will just have to try them.
The Defy and TCR get good comments on a number of forums.
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby normo85 » Fri Jan 09, 2015 9:38 am
I need some help in regards to buying a bike. I haven't rode a bike for a while but I am looking for something that I can ride down to the beaches and occasional tracks and can handle a bit more terrain when/if I get more serious. I don't want a throw away bike from Big W, as I am 6'4'' they are mostly too small anyways. I've done some looking around and debating between a giant atx27.5 1, specialized hardrock and a trek marlin 5... I've compared all the specs.. but none of it makes sense to me. Am I on the right the track? which might be better? I only want to spend around $500 for a first bike
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby SheikYerbouti » Fri Jan 09, 2015 10:08 am
Here are a few options on used decent comfort/endurance bikes around Australia that I found in about 5 mins. I don't know your size or location (ask a shop to size you, or pay $50 for a basic fitting, it'll help immensely). But compare these to what you're looking at new for the same money.rockpaper wrote:I had considered the used higher-end bike but there are not many around that are “comfort” styles.
http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/cairns-s ... 1066773753" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/hope-isl ... 1062804672" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; (I have this exact frame, just 105 not Tiagra, and have ridden it for 80km rides and like it. I'm about to turn 40 and am average fitness. I think this price is a steal especially if you get one with some/all celeste colour). Here's a used one http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/wickham/ ... 1066620952" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/lindenda ... 1066250236" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/melbourn ... 1066479298" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/willetto ... 1066848008" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/sunnyban ... 1066854200" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://www.gumtree.com.au/s-ad/kellyvil ... 1066409531" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby rockpaper » Fri Jan 09, 2015 11:05 am
That gives me a range of bikes to consider.
I am in VIC and the Synapse is in VIC, which is a brand/model I was considering.
I am only 175 cm tall and was told at the Specialized store that the 54 cm frame would be a better fit.
Not sure if that is correct but would not like to spend $1000 on a bike that does not fit.
cheers!
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby SheikYerbouti » Fri Jan 09, 2015 11:29 am
Well I'm 179cm and use a 54-55cm frame.rockpaper wrote:Thanks, SheikYerbouti!
I am only 175 cm tall and was told at the Specialized store that the 54 cm frame would be a better fit.
It depends on the length of your torso, legs, arms, flexibility, etc, and each manufacturer/model has different geometry.
There is no one golden rule.
Maybe go and spend a few dollars getting properly sized, and all your geometric measurements written down (eg required distance of saddle from bottom bracket, bars from saddle tip, etc).
Then when you see a nice bike, look up its geometry on the manufacturer's website (eg http://www.7hundred.co.uk/images/synapsegeom.png" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;) and compare it to what you need.
It is no big deal to adjust seat height/position, or put a new $30 stem on to change the distance you reach for the bars.
I don't know about Melb but these Sydney guys are well regarded. The $80 for a basic fit will enable you to spend your money on the right bike from day 1.
http://www.parkbikes.com.au/#!bike-fit- ... ydney/cvhd" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby rockpaper » Fri Jan 09, 2015 12:12 pm
i might look for a place that does fittings, the ones I have seen do them for $300.
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby rockpaper » Fri Jan 09, 2015 5:01 pm
and just wondering about the difference between the flat-bar bikes, say the Trek 7.5 FX.
It seems the riding position is more upright and so may be a good option for older/less flexible types.
the components looks similar to the Defy and others in that price range.
I guess I am just wondering why choose a road bike over the flat-bar type.
cheers.
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby SheikYerbouti » Fri Jan 09, 2015 6:24 pm
I'm 40ish too, go and ride a couple of each type, you'll feel what is right for you.
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby CKinnard » Fri Jan 09, 2015 8:13 pm
Once you increase distance or get onto rougher routes, your butt won't appreciate carrying most of your weight.
And if you want to go faster, the upright position is an aerodynamic disadvantage.
On the other hand, using drop bars is quite unnatural, and takes some time for many to get comfortable with.
Though once you do, it is the best position to cover lots of distance.
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby rockpaper » Fri Jan 09, 2015 8:16 pm
CKinnard: thanks. i appreciate your comments about carrying weight. I plan to do longer distances eventually, so it seems the road bike is more appropriate.
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby rockpaper » Sat Jan 10, 2015 3:12 pm
Bianchi Nirone 7 2014
Cannondale Caad8-6 2014
Cannondale Synapse 3 2015
the Nirone was only in a 55 cm frame (maybe ok), plus the guy did not adjust my seat height. still, felt nice
The Caad8-6 was in 51 cm (felt too small and tight) but the seat was right for my height. felt very nice, better than the Bianchi, although that might have been the poor adjustment of the Bianchi
The synapse was 54 cm and felt sweet, but is too expensive. i see now what the relaxed feel means now...
I will try the Defy 1 tomorrow to compare.
unfortunately, the synapse is more expensive than I wanted to spend.
I think i should stick to the less expensive 2014 models. I will be in Italy for a few months later this year and might be able to buy a better bike there for less cash.
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby normo85 » Sat Jan 10, 2015 6:58 pm
I need some help in regards to buying a bike. I haven't rode a bike for a while but I am looking for something that I can ride down to the beaches and occasional tracks and can handle a bit more terrain when/if I get more serious. I don't want a throw away bike from Big W, as I am 6'4'' they are mostly too small anyways. I've done some looking around and debating between a giant atx27.5 1, specialized hardrock and a trek marlin 5... I've compared all the specs.. but none of it makes sense to me. Am I on the right the track? which might be better? I only want to spend around $500 for a first bike
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby Storm Boy » Sun Jan 11, 2015 9:22 am
It might be an idea to perhaps start another thread with your requests, as it will stop this one getting confused with multiple suggestions for multiple people I'm sure you will get some help by doing this!
Regards,
SB
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby rockpaper » Sun Jan 11, 2015 3:28 pm
Cannondale Caad8-6 = still felt nice. still need a 54 frame. even adjusted stem length did not help.
Giant Defy 2 = did not like. did not feel as "relaxed" as I expected from forums and reviews
Merida Ride 93 = pretty sweet ride, too.
Bianchi via Nirone 7 = tried again, still did not get a kick out of it. it did go up hills easily, though...
so, down to a Caad8 or Merida now...
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby Storm Boy » Sun Jan 11, 2015 3:57 pm
Cheers!
SB
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby rockpaper » Sun Jan 11, 2015 4:40 pm
Do you find it is more "relaxed"/endurance style bike? I.e. More upright than some others you might have ridden?
Even though I did not love the bianchi, it went up a small hill pretty easily...
And the 54 cm Caad8 probably would have me more upright, too.
Maybe I am overthinking this.
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby cyclotaur » Sun Jan 11, 2015 5:12 pm
My old blog - A bit of fun
"Riding, not racing...completing, not competing"
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Re: Buying my first road bike- rate the brands?
Postby macca33 » Sun Jan 11, 2015 5:16 pm
You're a bit over 40-odd aren't you, certainly not stone-age?!?!? Drop-bar will be fine.rockpaper wrote:hi all,
and just wondering about the difference between the flat-bar bikes, say the Trek 7.5 FX.
It seems the riding position is more upright and so may be a good option for older/less flexible types.
the components looks similar to the Defy and others in that price range.
I guess I am just wondering why choose a road bike over the flat-bar type.
cheers.
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