I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME
-
No new posts
Moderators: k9car363, alicefoeller | Reply |
2007-06-11 10:04 AM |
Extreme Veteran 326 | Subject: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME I have completed my first sprint and olympic tris this year. In both events I finished in the top 50%, which was my goal. So, I have decided I enjoy the sport enough to get a bike (I have been borrowing an old Trek 2120 that is way to big for me). I am planning on going to All3Sports in Atlanta to buy the bike, but would like some answers for general questions prior to my visit to the showroom. I am planning on a full fitting with their f.i.s.t guy, so I am sure to get a bike that will fit me. That said, I would love some input from you guys. My budget is $1500-$2500 MAX 1. I do most of my riding and training alone, but I do live in an area that is not exactly flat (Gainesville GA). I plan on competeing in an olympic distance race once a month during this season and next season as well. So first question would be: Is a dedicated tri-bike right for the kind of riding I plan on doing. 2. My goal was to complete a 1/2 IM next year and a IM in 2009, but I am ahead of schedule at this point and may try to register for a late fall 1/2 this year and possible IM in 2008. So question #2: If I am planning on the longer distance races is full carbon that big of an advantage vs. aluminum. I am looking for comfort more than speed. My goal is to finish the races in decent time, but I am not looking to compete with the elites (not yet anyways!). 3. Window shopping so far has led me to the following bikes. 1. Kuota K-Factor (Adv FULL CARBON) I really like the reviews on this bike 2. Cervelo Dual (Adv Price) 3. Cervelo Soloist (Adv flexibility can use for group rides if I decide I enjoy that). So question 3: Any input on the above bikes or recommendations of other bikes that might fit my needs would be very helpful. 4. The K-Factor is full carbon frame but only comes with Shimano 105's while the Dual comes with Ultegra componets. What is more important the frame or componets? THANKS! |
|
2007-06-11 10:17 AM in reply to: #838767 |
Master 2299 New York | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME Ride them all, buy which one fits and feels the best. If they all fit and felt exactly the same, personally I would go with the Soloist (though I think they start around $3k). From what I've heard it's one of the best road bikes to convert to tri duty, so you'd basically have the best of both worlds. FWIW, I ride a DA Dual and absolutely love it. Mostly DA components, and it was a tick under $2k - that'd leave you with 500 or so to play with accessories and fun toys. *edit* You'll see a pretty sizeable step up in bike quality from the $1500 price point to $2500. Edited by KenyonTri 2007-06-11 10:18 AM |
2007-06-11 10:20 AM in reply to: #838767 |
Champion 4902 Ottawa, Ontario | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME 1. A tri bike is recommended if you plan to move on to HIM and IM distances. 2. Full carbon is smoother and does absorb more vibrations from the road. However a good aluminum tri bike, such as the P2SL will have a carbon fork and carbon seat post. 3. Another one you forgot to mention is the P2SL which comes in 3 models this year, all under 3K (in Canadian dollars):
Also, if you are planning to do a lot of groups rides as well as triathlons, the Cervélo Soloist is probably the best bike for you. It is great as both, a road bike and a tri bike. 4. The most important thing to consider when buying a bike is the frame. Edited by Machiavelo 2007-06-11 10:21 AM |
2007-06-11 10:30 AM in reply to: #838767 |
Not a Coach 11473 Media, PA | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME I do most of my riding and training alone, but I do live in an area that is not exactly flat (Gainesville GA). I plan on competeing in an olympic distance race once a month during this season and next season as well. So first question would be: Is a dedicated tri-bike right for the kind of riding I plan on doing. Unless you also want to do some bike racing or group rides with those that frown on tri-bikes, then a full tri set-up sounds right for you--though this could be done on TT geometry or road geometry. 2. My goal was to complete a 1/2 IM next year and a IM in 2009, but I am ahead of schedule at this point and may try to register for a late fall 1/2 this year and possible IM in 2008. So question #2: If I am planning on the longer distance races is full carbon that big of an advantage vs. aluminum. I am looking for comfort more than speed. My goal is to finish the races in decent time, but I am not looking to compete with the elites (not yet anyways!). No. Frame material is WAY down the list of things that impact your comfort on the bike. Fit sits on top. 3. Window shopping so far has led me to the following bikes. 1. Kuota K-Factor (Adv FULL CARBON) I really like the reviews on this bike 2. Cervelo Dual (Adv Price) 3. Cervelo Soloist (Adv flexibility can use for group rides if I decide I enjoy that). So question 3: Any input on the above bikes or recommendations of other bikes that might fit my needs would be very helpful. I have a Soloist and like it. Have thought about looking at full TT frames, but keep deciding that the Soloist is good enough for me. May move to a full tri set-up on the front-end next season. 4. The K-Factor is full carbon frame but only comes with Shimano 105's while the Dual comes with Ultegra componets. What is more important the frame or componets? THANKS! Frame is more important in that it is more expensive to replace and it is what dictates fit. But the fact that the K-Factor is carbon does not in and of itself make it better than the Dual. |
2007-06-11 10:30 AM in reply to: #838767 |
Extreme Veteran 389 Central Wisconsin | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME Have you factored shoes, pedals, helmet, tire pump, spare tubes, etc. into your budget? If not that is another 250-300 dollars right there. Not sure if you had thought of that. 1. Do you plan on doing group rides or ever entering road races? If the only type of event you plan on doing is a tri or doing the occasional tri friendly group ride, go with a tri bike. You'll probably get a lot of opinions on this question though. 2. There is a slight advantage of carbon over aluminum on deading the road vibration. You can offset that on an aluminum bike though with carbon seat post, fork, and handle bars. Is it a bike advantage? Personally I dont think so and I have a carbon road bike and an aluminum tri bike and both are equally comfortable. Usually you will pay more for a carbon bike vs. an aluminum bike. 3. Im Cervelo fan so I say 2 or 3. Go with the one that fits you best and it may not even be one of the 3 you have listed. 4. 105 is heavier then Ultegra, thats about it. Usually its cheaper to upgrade a part then the whole frame. |
2007-06-11 1:55 PM in reply to: #838767 |
Expert 1070 North Carolina | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME If your number one goal is comfort then I would go with the best carbon road bike you can afford hands down. I would do this w/o spending a lot just to upgrade a few ounces for lighter components. |
|
2007-06-11 2:07 PM in reply to: #839339 |
Not a Coach 11473 Media, PA | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME BeCivil - 2007-06-11 1:55 PM If your number one goal is comfort then I would go with the best carbon road bike you can afford hands down. MYTH. |
2007-06-11 2:28 PM in reply to: #838767 |
Elite 2673 Muskego, WI | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME MYTH x2. My tri-bike is more comfortable than my admittedly older carbon road bike. I love resting on my elbows and just riding. Also, have you considered the Felt S22? From www.bikesportmichigan.com 2007 Felt S22 |
2007-06-11 3:27 PM in reply to: #838767 |
Pro 3883 Woodstock,GA | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME Go take a look at Roswell Bikes and see what they have to offer. From your selection it sounds like you have just been to All3 and they aren't the only game in town. Look around and see what is out there before making a decision. And to echo what alot of others have said, it is all about fit. It doesn't matter how light, aero, or expensive your bike is if you aren't comfortable riding it. |
2007-06-11 4:08 PM in reply to: #838767 |
Champion 19812 MA | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME You can get K Factor in Ultegra...that is what I ride...love the bike but fit comes first. It is perfect for those of us regular folks so we ride it like it was designed...not super low front end with lots of stackers. Be patient...go, ask a lot of questions & test ride as many as you can. |
2007-06-11 4:25 PM in reply to: #838767 |
29 | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME Being a cheap guy, I usually try to buy new, but last year's model. It's tricky sometimes, but if you find the model you want, then you can usually save a good amount. That's more of a general tip, but something to consider. Edited by nowalk 2007-06-11 4:30 PM |
|
2007-06-11 4:31 PM in reply to: #839434 |
Resident Curmudgeon 25290 The Road Back | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME morey1 - 2007-06-11 2:28 PM MYTH x2. My tri-bike is more comfortable than my admittedly older carbon road bike. I love resting on my elbows and just riding. Also, have you considered the Felt S22? From www.bikesportmichigan.com While you're reading BSM reviews, look at this one on the Dual: http://www.bikesportmichigan.com/reviews/06CerveloDual.shtml "The Cervelo Dual has always been a solid bike. The 2006 version of the Cervelo Dual integrates three elements that make it the best buy of the entire triathlon bike category: 1, Best component spec below $2000, and arguably, very little to improve on at any price. 2, Excellent and proven frame design, fit and aerodynamics. 3, The lowest price for a bike of its type.From any angle you review the Cervelo Dual; it is simply the best buy in a triathlon bike."
|
2007-06-11 5:34 PM in reply to: #839683 |
Pro 3903 Andover | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME the bear - 2007-06-11 5:31 PM "From any angle you review the Cervelo Dual; it is simply the best buy in a triathlon bike." Except for the P2SL! It's a DAMN GOOD bike at a DAMN GOOD value! Edited by CptnJackSparrow 2007-06-11 5:34 PM |
2007-06-11 7:06 PM in reply to: #839793 |
Master 2006 Portland, ME | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME If you are going to focus on Tris then get a tri bike. The P2SL is a nice bike. I have a QR Tequilo which has a carbon seat stay and a nice componet package which I got for under 2K. (added used race wheels for another $600). When I was in the same situation as you, I asked myself if I ever wanted to ride in roady groups or road race. And since I didn't there was no reason to buy a road bike.
|
2007-06-11 7:15 PM in reply to: #838767 |
Extreme Veteran 326 | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME What about the area I live in? Good amount of hills compared to most areas. I averaged 20mph at my olympic tri this weekend, whereas I average about 16-17mph in my hometown. How much should this weigh in the decision of road vs. tri? |
2007-06-11 7:40 PM in reply to: #839883 |
Champion 5529 Nashville, TN | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME jamesehatcher - 2007-06-11 8:15 PM What about the area I live in? Good amount of hills compared to most areas. I averaged 20mph at my olympic tri this weekend, whereas I average about 16-17mph in my hometown. How much should this weigh in the decision of road vs. tri? Personally? NONE. The deciding factor is how and what kind of bike YOU see yourself riding. The tri v. road bike has been presented. You need to decide what style of riding you want to do. If you are worried about the area north of Atl, the ask people in the GA forum what bike(s) they own. Atlanta's terrain didn't factor into my buying decision at all. I can tell you that when I typically ride in town, I am around 16 mph, at Stone Mountain I am 19 mph, on the SCT 18mph and in the Gaps 14 mph. Tell me how this equates to the fact that I went 20+ mph in my last HIM??? Pick the bike that is best for you |
|
2007-06-18 10:27 AM in reply to: #838767 |
Expert 831 Raleigh, NC | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME |
2007-06-18 10:35 AM in reply to: #848562 |
Iron Donkey 38643 , Wisconsin | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME chris hughes - 2007-06-18 10:27 AM
But wh I'm a newbie, have a P2SL pro limited ed., and ride a number of hilly routes here in Wisconsin. I stay in the aero pretty much all the time, even when I'm dogging it in 2nd gear. I RARELY am out of the aero position and it is because I'm just trying to get a breather for a few seconds, or rest my left shoulder and neck area for a few seconds (don't know what's up with that yet), or having to ride in the urban area along the streets to stay on the horns to hit the brakes. I can see not being in aero if with group rides, though, but I haven't done one. |
2007-06-18 11:48 AM in reply to: #839370 |
Expert 1070 North Carolina | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME JohnnyKay - 2007-06-11 3:07 PM BeCivil - 2007-06-11 1:55 PM If your number one goal is comfort then I would go with the best carbon road bike you can afford hands down. MYTH. You might be more comfortable on your tri bike than a road bike. I am not saying you are not but I own both and can tell you I am more comfortable on the road bike. Yes, I have been fitted on both!! 6 hours on a tri bike is just agonizing to me. It would be interesting to know of people who own both, which they preferred more. |
2007-06-18 9:08 PM in reply to: #838767 |
Extreme Veteran 326 | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME I ended up buying the Kuota K-Factor (WHITE). I was fitted by Matt at all3sports and was very happy with his help. We looked at several bikes (tri and road) and decided that the relaxed geomtry of the K-Factor was a great compromise for comfort and aero factors. I am not in a very aggressive set up (YET). I went on a couple of rides over the weekend and besides a little bit of a sore neck the bike's position felt very good. The final decision for me was that my goal is to complete a HIM and IM within 2 years and I do most of my training by myself. Therefore, it only made sense to train in the aero position that will be most beneficial to me in the pursuit of my goals. THANKS FOR ALL THE INPUT! |
2007-06-18 9:20 PM in reply to: #838767 |
Champion 19812 MA | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME Love your choice...K Factor works well for us regular folks. Did you go with 105's or Ultegra? I hope you have many happy & fast miles together Someone mentioned being much more comfortable on their road bike compared to their tri bike. I have both; both are full carbon frames. Hands down my tri bike is more comfortable. I have the same fit guy set them both up and at a time they were both fit exactly the same so how can one feel so much better than the other? I don't know...love my K Factor. Edited by KathyG 2007-06-18 9:21 PM |
|
2007-06-18 9:25 PM in reply to: #838767 |
Extreme Veteran 326 | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME I went with the 105's. I am still needing a wetsuit and a new paid of shoes and pedals, so I thought the money would be better spent in those areas. Have you seen the White K-Factor? I should have a pic up tommorow of my bike (named Buddella). The guys at all3sports told me I had to name her, so they could put a sticker on the frame to make it look original. I have a black dog named Buddy, and a white dog named Ella. The bike is both black and white sooooooo Buddella! My wife loved the name and thought the purchase price was worth it after that. |
2007-06-19 6:28 AM in reply to: #848813 |
Pro 3883 Woodstock,GA | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME BeCivil - 2007-06-18 12:48 PM JohnnyKay - 2007-06-11 3:07 PM BeCivil - 2007-06-11 1:55 PM If your number one goal is comfort then I would go with the best carbon road bike you can afford hands down. MYTH. You might be more comfortable on your tri bike than a road bike. I am not saying you are not but I own both and can tell you I am more comfortable on the road bike. Yes, I have been fitted on both!! 6 hours on a tri bike is just agonizing to me. It would be interesting to know of people who own both, which they preferred more.
I have both and have been fitted to both and I agree that the roadie is more comfortable over 5-6 hours, HOWEVER the intent of a tri bike is to 1) acheive the best aerodynamic position in order to maximize your efficiency over 40k, 112 mi, whatever and 2) save your legs for the run due to the geometry of the tri bike. Do 6 hrs on the roadie and then go for a run and see how your legs feel. The secret to being comfortable on a tribike is a good fit and time in the saddle so your body gets used to that position for hours at a time.
Congrats on the bike James~! |
2007-06-19 9:19 AM in reply to: #838767 |
Expert 897 Seattle WA | Subject: RE: I am THIS CLOSE to buying a bike HELP ME I think the first decision has to be road vs tri bike. If you ever want to do group rides, such as with a local cycling club, you really have to ride a road bike. If you will train mostly solo and don't plan to do bike races, then the tri bike is it. If you're not sure, I'd say go for the soloist - I believe the frame is virtually identical to the dual. So, you can convert it to a tri bike if you want. Not something you can do on a regular basis, but once or twice a year. Also, I think a road bike with clipon aerobars is a far cry from a true tri bike. In my opinion that approach isn't worthwhile. Good luck, |