bike info?

1) I don't know, but make sure you choose a place that will give you a good fit on the bike as well. I would expect a fit to be included for free with the purchase of a bike as well. If they say otherwise, run away. I haven't been there, but I feel like Cronometro would be a good place. I haven't been impressed by any other shops in Madison (Machinery Row <--expensive, Willy's <--crappy mechanics, Budget <--do they have tri bikes?). While there will be some great deals online, I would avoid them this time simply because being able to get a bike fit from a local shop will be very valuable.

2) Definitely a tri bike. There's no reason to incrementally work up to the right bike unless your budget demands it (yours doesn't). With a tri bike you will have superior aerodynamics and the steeper seat tube angle will make it easier to run after the bike leg. You can jury rig a road bike to approximate tri bike geometry, but why do that when you can just use a tri bike in the first place?

3) The best time is between now and a few months from now. Next year's models are coming out so bike shops will offer discounts on this year's models to make room (I know Cronometro is having a Cervelo sale, btw). Also the tri season is ending, so the demand for gear is dropping off, so the prices should come down as well.

4) $2000 is the regime where you get the best bang for your buck, so you should find a bike that will last you forever. Paying much less (<$1500) will give you a significant drop in what you get, but paying more (>$2000) will start to get into the diminishing returns zone. You'll get better stuff, but it will be only a little better. For $2000 you should be able to get an aero frame, vision tech bars, good wheels and at least an ultegra drivetrain.



Edited by skavoovie 2009-09-18 3:40 PM

I was in Cronometro yesterday, they don't have squat in stock.  You will basically be ordering a bike through them.  From what I have heard, and from speaking with their staff, they are the most knowledgeable/capable Tri shop in town, at least for bike fit. 

On the flip side they carry high end stuff, not sure what Cervelos run, but I would be very surprised if you could buy a bike from them under $2000.00.  They might be able to give you a fit on their equipment and point you in the right direction for something more affordable.  This would cost some $ though. 

Hope this helps.

Greg

I actually would suggest Machinery Row. They have quite a few QR's in stock and they are the lower priced models like the Caliente and Tequilo. I think they offer fittings with purchase as well.

Machinery Row rocks.  Definitely check them out.  They have a bunch of bikes marked down right now and they have good expertise as well.

Thanks for all the advice. I will check out a couple places and need to do some online reading as well.