Merida Scultura 904 or 905

[hillrider7]

I have pretty much decided that I will be buying a new 2013 Merida Scultura Comp 904 as my first road bike. This comes with 105, Mavic Aksium wheelset and full carbon frame, and through a personal deal I can get this bike 25% off for about $1,680.

However, I am beginning to think I should be paying the extra $300 or so and get the 905 version, which comes with Ultegra and Fulcrum Racing wheels instead, and I think some things like the handlebars are upgraded as well.

I need to do some convincing as my parents are funding this bike but they aren't sure about going up to the 905. For those of you who know a bit about these bikes, is it worth going up to the 905? What do I get in the 905 that is better than the 904?

Thanks

904:

http://99bikes.com.au/bike/merida-scult ... ck/19/6766

905:

http://99bikes.com.au/bike/merida-scult ... 05/19/6767

[Howzat]

If this bike is for racing, it's probably a worthwhile upgrade for the racing wheelset. if it's not purely for racing, go the 904. The frame is the same, Ultegra/105 are both 10 speed and are more or less a wash, but the Mavic wheelset is a little heavier, and probably a lot tougher.

[jcjordan]

Personally I would spend the extra. While I believe that the ultegra shifts better than 105 the difference is marginal. The real difference is in the wheel set. Fulcrum have a much nicer hub and the spoke are easier to source if you have a problem. Plus the hubs will last longer.

[jimsheedy]

Get the best you can afford. 105 is not as good as Ultegra. As Ultegra is not as good as Dura Ace.

Mavics make a great wheel though. I have ksyrium elite's which I have done about 15000 km on. Ive had to true the wheels once and ive broken one spoke, which wasn't that hard to source at all. They roll beautifully, and the hubs are not showing any sign of wear. I've never owned Fulcrums so I can't comment on them.

[josephk86]

Hi Hillrider,

I'm pretty keen to hear what you decide. I'm looking at the same two bikes at the moment and can't decide whether the extra $$$ is worth it on the bike or whether to save for upgrades.