Topic: First Road Bike for Novice
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Gary
AR
Member Since:
04/13/2006 Total Posts: 759
4.1 Years Ago
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I want to get a road bike. I am 53 and run as my primary excercise, but lately have been bitten by the cycle bug. Any suggestions on a first cycle purchase? I guess the max for me would be between $750-$1000. I am not really interested in a hybrid or cross training bike at this time, but your suggestions would be invaluable as there are 100's of bikes to choose from. I might even train for a dualthon, but I want one for logging mileage not just for riding around the block. So far I have looked at a 2005 Specialize Sequoia for $750.00. I know nothing about frames, forks, gears, seats, etc.
Thanks in advance. Feel free to send me a sharing message also. I check the discussion boards quiet often also. |
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Re: First Road Bike for Novice
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Tammie
WI
Member Since:
10/10/2005 Total Posts: 590
4.1 Years Ago
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Specialized is a good choice. My husband and I bought our Specialized bikes a few years ago and we love them. It is a huge difference from our Trek Comfort bikes. When we bought our Specialized they were around $800 each, but since we have added Aero bars for about $50. As far as road bikes I think it is a good value. I really enjoy it... does this mean that Bricks are in your future??? ;-)
Tammie |
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Re: First Road Bike for Novice
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Gary
AR
Member Since:
04/13/2006 Total Posts: 759
4.1 Years Ago
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I am currently looking at a Specialized Allez Comp. The bike shop is giving me a discount because it is the end of the year. Seems to have nice components as part of the package.
Any recommendations on riding shorts, helmets, gloves, pedals, etc.?
Yes Tammie,
I am looking at doing some bike-run bricks. The cycling will help on those days I am resting my shin splints from running.
Anyone have a favorite brand of riding shorts, gloves, helmets, shoes, pedals, etc that you can share. This is getting expensive. :) |
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Re: Re: First Road Bike for Novice
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Jimbo
FL
Member Since:
01/03/2005 Total Posts: 675
4.1 Years Ago
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Gary,
What are the components? Shimano 105, Tiara, Ultegra, Dura Ace? I am assuming they are probably Ultegra. Nice reliable tough set.
Recommendations for shorts: something with a nice THICK pad. Helmet...one that fits properly. Gloves...anything but flowered gardening gloves. Pedals...now that is something you might want to think about. Peronally I like SpeedPlays. |
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Re: First Road Bike for Novice
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Gary
AR
Member Since:
04/13/2006 Total Posts: 759
4.1 Years Ago
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Jim,
It comes with Shimano 105 components according to the specs in the catalog, but in road bike reviews owners say the bike was set up with Ultegra and Dura Ace components and rear derailers. I am confused. |
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Re: First Road Bike for Novice
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Gary
AR
Member Since:
04/13/2006 Total Posts: 759
4.1 Years Ago
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Thanks Derrick.
I edited my last post, but from reviews it appears the Allez Comp comes with Ultegra component group and a Dura Ace rear derailer. However, if you look in the specs for the bike is says Shimano 105 components. I am confused as to what the bike will come with. I will speak to my LBS owner tomorrow to make sure it has the Ultegra and Dura Ace parts. |
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Re: First Road Bike for Novice
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Gary
AR
Member Since:
04/13/2006 Total Posts: 759
4.1 Years Ago
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OK, well I took the plunge and got a 58cm '06 Specialized Allez Comp. Comes standard with the Shimano 105 components. The '05 model came with the Ultegra and Dura Ace components BUT the wrong frame size (too short for me)and the stores here that carries Specialized were all out of the 58cm '05 models. Specialized upgraded the wheels on the 06 Comp, but downgraded the derailers and gears to the 105's. This is my first bike so I think I will be happy with it. Thanks for all the input. |
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Re: Re: First Road Bike for Novice
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Jimbo
FL
Member Since:
01/03/2005 Total Posts: 675
4.1 Years Ago
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How tall are you Gary? |
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Re: First Road Bike for Novice
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Gary
AR
Member Since:
04/13/2006 Total Posts: 759
4.1 Years Ago
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6'0" with a taller leg than torso ratio. I tested both the 56 and the 58 and the 58 felt better. Even strattling the frame I had some play standing flat footed. If I like the bike I may upgrade the components later or trade up to the Allez Elite. |
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