[beefcakefx]

I'm an active biker, though inconsistently so, but I've never specified in any particular style of biking. I own a Rockhopper that I've used for commuting, road travel, off road, etc. but I want the capability to do much more. I want to do some long distance touring, a more efficient (and less tire shredding) commuter, the ability to do some off-road exploring when I don't have my mountain bike, and the means to dabble with cyclocross racing and triathalons without embarassing myself. Essentially, I need a durable road bike and a cyclocross seems to fit the bill.

I understand the value of Shimano componentry but I'm having trouble evaluating other comparing other bike components (frame, wheels, crankset, hubs, etc). Based on interest in Shimano components, rack compatibility for touring, weight, general impression, and price range, I've narrowed the vast list of cyclo bikes to the list below (ordered by preference, so far). I could really use help in evaluating further. Please take a look and offer any tidbit of advice, direction, criticism, etc.

Bike.............................................. Retail....Comments
Specialized Tricross Expert Double....$2,200.....best components, full rack mounts
Jamis Supernova...........................$1,925.....b etter components, light (18.5lbs)
Bianchi Cross Concept....................$2,350.....lightest (Scandium frame)
Felt F1X (2006)............................$1,600.....be tter components, price, 06 better than 07
Specialized Tricross Comp Triple......$1,800.....better components, full rack mounts
Trek X0 2....................................$2,200... ..better components, probably overpriced
Redline Conquest Pro.....................$1,000.....good components, price
Fuji Cross Pro...............................$1,750.....bes t components, price
Rocky Mountain Solo CXR...............$1,500.....good components
Jamis Nova...................................$1,300... ..good components
Trek X0 1.....................................$1,320... ..good components
Cannondale Cyclocross Optimo.........$1,250.....disc brakes, heaviest
Redline Conquest.............................$800.....go od components, cheapest
Novara Rivet.................................$1,600... ..good components, best crankset?

Thanks, Mike

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[thatguy]

Lemond Poprad: Solid but light steel frame, rack mounts, disc brakes (if you're into that sort of thing, might not be allowed in triathlons)

I would stay away from some of the racier aluminum offerings (Cross concept/C'dale/etc.) They won't be up for touring duty with their lightweight frames and narrower gearing. Some cross bikes are designed as race machines, some more as a do-anything as you describe.

You should also check out the Kona lineup and others offered as frame-only: Surly Cross-Check, Gunnar Cross Hairs, Salsa Casseroll, et al. Those you can build into anything you want.

[bka2]

hello - i'm bumping another old thread in my quest for a cross bike. i have the same exact needs as the OP, actually. OP, if you're still around, what did you end up deciding on?

in any case - does anyone know if the redline conquest pro has rear rack mounts? there's one on ebay in my size right now but the seller's response to my question was very ambiguous - he said, "yes, you can mount a rack." well, you CAN mount a rack on any bike, but my question was whether the bike has mounts for a rack on the rear seat stays...anyone know? thanks!

[zoeglassjd]

I'm about to sell a poprad with front and rear rack eyelets and ultegra upgrades. PM if interested. It is gorgeous!