Need Recommendations or comments on 3 bikes

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2009-06-18 4:13 PM

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Subject: Need Recommendations or comments on 3 bikes
Hi guys,

Been beating my head about my first road bike to be used in Triathlon, I need an entry level bike that can get me through my first Half Ironman. 

I´ve narrowed it down to the following bikes, anyone know these or have any other preferences.  My budget was 900-1400usd.

1. Trek 1.5
http://www.trekbikes.com/uk/en/bikes/road/1_series/15

2. Giant Defy
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-US/bikes/road/2266/32193/

3. Scott Speedster
http://scottusa.com/us_en/product/70/790/speedster_s40

Any recommendations or comments are welcome as this is getting to be quite a headache Smile

Regards,

2009-06-18 7:53 PM
in reply to: #2227639


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Subject: RE: Need Recommendations or comments on 3 bikes
The bikes you list would be great.  However, if you can go all the way up to $1400, it would get you into something that has at least Shimano 105.  Using the Scott as an example, the jump to the S30 would cost you less than $400.  But you get better shifters, derailleurs, cranks, cassette, chain and it's a 20 speed.  I would add the Specialized Allez to the list and as always, make sure it fits correctly.
2009-06-19 6:54 PM
in reply to: #2227639

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Subject: RE: Need Recommendations or comments on 3 bikes

Have you rode any of these bikes?  If the bike doesn't fit, none of them will be worth having.

By quick glance, the Giant Defy has the lowest components of the 3.  $900 to $1400 is a huge range in terms bike components.  Like the poster above said (sorry, missed the name before I pressed reply), going up into the higher end of your range will get you up to Shimano 105 components, better quality than Tiagra any day of the week.  Sora is a step lower than the Tiagra.  With that said, those lower end components suit some riders just fine but IMO it is better to spend the money early that pay more to upgrade later if this is something you know you will stick with.

2009-06-19 8:23 PM
in reply to: #2227639

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Subject: RE: Need Recommendations or comments on 3 bikes
None of the above. Best bike in that price range with the Kona Zing. Not many Kona dealers out there and, of course, fit is most critical. The Kona is 7000 series Aluminum, Carbon fork, all 105 group and the welds and finish are fantastic.

Specialized Allez is also a better choice than those.

Of the 3 bikes you list, I'd choose none of the above. My preference is the Kona.
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