05? Specialized Transition Expert Tri-bike (need advice!!)

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2009-06-24 10:44 PM


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Subject: 05? Specialized Transition Expert Tri-bike (need advice!!)
So, I'm new to the sport of triathlon, and as I was looking over buying a tri-bike, I found a deal that seems to be good, but I want some seasoned advice before I make a decision. Here's what it was:

Cost: $1500
Specialized Transition Expert Tri-Bike
58cm
FSA SLK Crankset
Dura Ace rear derailleur/ Ultegra front derailleur
Ultegra Shifters

For some reason, I can't remember the make/model of rims, but they were actually immaculate in appearance. It is a used bike, raced in Coeur D'Alene and Kona Ironman races, and training. The frame is in great condition, with some very small cosmetic marks, supposedly from "bike transitions and handling". I've read so many different opinions about the FSA SLK cranks, both positive and negative, and I don't know what to look for/ask about in a used tri-bike. Any suggestions?

P.S.- I believe it's an '05, but I'm not 100% on that either. It's metallic orange, if that helps...Thanks!

2009-06-25 7:27 AM
in reply to: #2241509

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Subject: RE: 05? Specialized Transition Expert Tri-bike (need advice!!)
First off is it the new carbon frame or the old aluminum frame. I think 2005 was aluminum.
As to the cranks, they are not the best you can buy but they are perfectly fine otherwise. I have them on my tri bike and have had no issues. They are installed by a lot of manufacturers cause they're carbon and not crazy evpensive.

If it's the carbon frame and in good shape $1500 sounds like a decent price.
2009-06-25 9:07 AM
in reply to: #2241509

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Subject: RE: 05? Specialized Transition Expert Tri-bike (need advice!!)
As somewhat a point of reference, I bot a 2006 Transition Comp frame for $310 last year.
2009-06-25 9:18 AM
in reply to: #2241509

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Subject: RE: 05? Specialized Transition Expert Tri-bike (need advice!!)

I am guessing that this is the bike that you are talking about. It is a 2007 Transition Expert.  It’s now almost 3 years old (some 2010 Specializeds are already out).  I personally do not think that it is that great of a deal. You can get a '09 Transition Comp for around the same price.  However, I would go with what fits you the best look around there are a lot of bikes in that price point.

2009-06-25 9:33 AM
in reply to: #2241509

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Subject: RE: 05? Specialized Transition Expert Tri-bike (need advice!!)
AFAIK, the expert was only made in 06, 07, 08, 09... 06 was red and 07 was gold. (08 and 09 are carbon).

FWIW, you can buy a new 2009 Transition Comp E5 (the aluminum one), which is DA/Ultegra 10 speed for $1900 (retail)...and could probably find a new 08 for less. If you're looking at aluminum, and want to spend $1500-1800...you may want to look that way.
2009-06-25 2:09 PM
in reply to: #2242095


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Subject: RE: 05? Specialized Transition Expert Tri-bike (need advice!!)
jhouse4 - 2009-06-25 7:18 AM

I am guessing that this is the bike that you are talking about. It is a 2007 Transition Expert.  It’s now almost 3 years old (some 2010 Specializeds are already out).  I personally do not think that it is that great of a deal. You can get a '09 Transition Comp for around the same price.  However, I would go with what fits you the best look around there are a lot of bikes in that price point.



Yes, that is the bike in question. I didn't think $1500 was too great of a deal either. Oh well. Back to the drawing board... Thanks for the advice though! I appreciate it very much!

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