Okay, so I asked all of you to help me choose a car, but now I'm considering NOT buying a car (sigh...I'm female, I can't help it :p) and, instead, waiting a couple of years to get the vehicle. In the meantime, I could save up (I no longer have a car payment) to upgrade to a new bike. NO, I cannot afford a Specialized or Look, so don't even go there, and NO, I'm not willing to sell my body on the street to afford an "even better than that" bike (once money exchanges hands, it no longer feels like fun and just seems like a 9-5 job).
So, opinions are welcomed. I'm not building up a bike by buying parts and having them put together. I must have a women's specific bike and I'm right now considering a Lemonde Women's specific - just under $2,000 - that will put me on carbon and lighten my load. I honestly do not know all the models out there although I do have the Bicycling magazine that gives reviews for 2007/2008. I want opinions from all you wonderful folks that I've ridden with! :)
This bike will not be purchased tomorrow, UNLESS someone on here knows of a screaming deal!
Oh, and one last thing, in order to buy a new bike, I will have to sell Patsy (sniff). So, if you know of any women looking for a good bike for a little under $1,000, please let her know. :D
Happytime
09-07-07, 12:20 PM
Specialized is not that expensive. You can get a full carbon Ruby with Ultegra for under $2000:
Ruby on eBay (http://cgi.ebay.com/2007-Specialized-Ruby-Expert_W0QQitemZ300148231246QQihZ020QQcategoryZ98084QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)
From my experience on test rides, the Giants are a bit longer on the TT, same with Cannondale.
Oh, and I'd avoid the new 2008s. Unless there has been a big change in the frame design (i.e. Madone) you'll get more bang for your buck by getting a 2007. The new 2008s should be coming in now so you should be able to get a good deal over the next few months on the 2007s.
merider1
09-07-07, 12:22 PM
Wow, Joy! I didn't even realize. But I'm not buying off of ebay, so I'll have to find that deal at a bike shop for sure.
1955
09-07-07, 12:27 PM
Specialized is not that expensive. You can get a full carbon Ruby with Ultegra for under $2000:
Ruby on eBay (http://cgi.ebay.com/2007-Specialized-Ruby-Expert_W0QQitemZ300148231246QQihZ020QQcategoryZ98084QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem)
From my experience on test rides, the Giants are a bit longer on the TT, same with Cannondale.
Oh, and I'd avoid the new 2008s. Unless there has been a big change in the frame design (i.e. Madone) you'll get more bang for your buck by getting a 2007. The new 2008s should be coming in now so you should be able to get a good deal over the next few months on the 2007s.
What she said!!!
merider1
09-07-07, 12:31 PM
Well, realistically, I could buy the bike by November if I really wanted to. So, that's excellent advice, Joy. I would consider the 2007s for sure.
1955
09-07-07, 12:31 PM
Specialized gets lumped in with Trek and Giant, but I really think that they do the best job of giving you the best bang for the buck and having bikes that are made for the most people (lots of different models). My Roubaix is over three years old and it's still my new bike to me.
ronjon10
09-07-07, 12:39 PM
You happen to know what size you want? I'm going over to Cynergy in a couple of hours to pick up my bike. I'll check and see what they have in the sub 2k range in womens bikes.
I happen to have a friend who's getting a screaming good deal on a Lemond, but the deal is in Wisconsin. There are many screaming good deals out there though. This is a competitive market and as HT says, stores are looking to dump the 2007's.
merider1
09-07-07, 12:42 PM
You happen to know what size you want? I'm going over to Cynergy in a couple of hours to pick up my bike. I'll check and see what they have in the sub 2k range in womens bikes.
Thanks, Ronjon! :) I ride a WSD 54.
Pheard
09-07-07, 12:49 PM
I'm going to suggest a Giant OCR Carbon. They've been closing out the c1,c2, and c3 for the last while. I know Liz got an ocr c3 like me and loves it.
herbm
09-07-07, 12:55 PM
ME...you have to go to a few shops to see whats available and what you like,afford,etc...
Also remember....you might get a great deal at some store like SCC, but what do you do about adjustments,etc?
Driving to HB for a free bike adjustment is a bit much...so you will have to pay the lbs to do stuff for you...just something to consider....I have thought about this as well in my planning for a new bike...
ggallin
09-07-07, 01:01 PM
ibis.
socalrider
09-07-07, 01:37 PM
good time of the year to be buying.. deals will become available on 07 models as the 08 are starting to hit shops in the next couple of months..
DaveSANYYZ
09-07-07, 01:41 PM
but what do you do about adjustments,etc?Bring a whip on BF rides? :D :p
I'd narrow my selection by look then test rides.
Pheard
09-07-07, 01:53 PM
I change my suggestion. I hear Mary is into "specialized" and into "stumpys". This particular stumpy is robust and has long travel, just the way one should like it. Then we can going bouncy bouncy boing boing down the trail, but be careful, dont want to bouncy bouncy flop flop, because then you go bouncy bouncy brokenoseneedcosmeticsurgery. Ukay?
Incycle's doing 10-35% off all 2007's this weekend, the Pasadena store stocks specialized and cannondale, San Dimas has Trek.
ronjon10
09-07-07, 01:56 PM
Cynergy has a Ruby Comp for 1900. It's got the 105 group. It's a good bike at a good price, but it's not a screaming deal.
Herb makes a good point. If the shop you normally use is giving you free minor maintenance which you use once every 2 months, that's about 200/year that you'd be saving in either $$ or personal labor by sticking with them.
ronjon10
09-07-07, 02:00 PM
Incycle's doing 10-35% off all 2007's this weekend, the Pasadena store stocks specialized and cannondale, San Dimas has Trek.
You should check that out. I know a couple of people who really like that shop. Heck, drop Johns name and they should roll out the red carpet :)
merider1
09-07-07, 02:00 PM
Well, I must admit that I love Budget Bikes (my recent "bike-cleaning" incident aside). They offer great service and Oscar, who owns the shop, is a sweetheart and very honest man (no doubt about it). But if I buy from the them it will have to be a Trek or Lemonde. Maybe I'll give Oscar a call...
merider1
09-07-07, 02:01 PM
You should check that out. I know a couple of people who really like that shop. Heck, drop Johns name and they should roll out the red carpet :)
But do they do free maintenance???? Cause if not, I'm going to have to both sweetalk Bob and buy him dinner on a regular basis to get him to tune up my bike for free. He has done it a couple of times now, and he does a better job than the bike shop!
herbm
09-07-07, 02:23 PM
Incycle's doing 10-35% off all 2007's this weekend, the Pasadena store stocks specialized and cannondale, San Dimas has Trek.
I was there today since i was in the area...nice store...they also had some sweet Looks, and Cervelos..prices looked good and they are having a big sale!!
herbm
09-07-07, 02:24 PM
Well, I must admit that I love Budget Bikes (my recent "bike-cleaning" incident aside). They offer great service and Oscar, who owns the shop, is a sweetheart and very honest man (no doubt about it). But if I buy from the them it will have to be a Trek or Lemonde. Maybe I'll give Oscar a call...
I would talk to him or dave...I do trust them both...
I may buy a frameset and let them build it for me...but service is a concern...
What is the "bike-cleaning" incident??? Details....
merider1
09-07-07, 02:25 PM
I would talk to him or dave...I do trust them both...
I may buy a frameset and let them build it for me...but service is a concern...
What is the "bike-cleaning" incident??? Details....
I'll have to tell you about it, Herb, as I'd rather not post it on here, but let's just say that it had me considering not going back. :(
herbm
09-07-07, 02:28 PM
I'll have to tell you about it, Herb, as I'd rather not post it on here, but let's just say that it had me considering not going back. :(
PM?
ronjon10
09-07-07, 02:40 PM
Any of these bikes should be had for under 2k:
2007 Trek 5000 WSD
2008 Trek Madone 4.5
2007(8?) Lemond Versailles
They're all carbon bikes with an ultegra / 105 component mix (mostly 105) and can be had in triple & compact double configurations. I suspect if you want a full ultegra set, you'll need to go used or come up with more $$ either of which probably isn't worth it.
merider1
09-07-07, 02:42 PM
Any of these bikes should be had for under 2k:
2007 Trek 5000 WSD
2008 Trek Madone 4.5
2007(8?) Lemond Versailles
They're all carbon bikes with an ultegra / 105 component mix (mostly 105) and can be had in triple & compact double configurations. I suspect if you want a full ultegra set, you'll need to go used or come up with more $$ either of which probably isn't worth it.
That Madone and Lemonde - are they WSD? And thanks again, Ronjon. Now...you want to BUY ME the bike?
suddenly crickets can be heard as everyone exists thread
ronjon10
09-07-07, 02:56 PM
That Madone and Lemonde - are they WSD? And thanks again, Ronjon. Now...you want to BUY ME the bike?
suddenly crickets can be heard as everyone exists thread
They're all WSD. My friend just got the Versailles.
I missed that last question though, my screen is a little smudgy. Funny the smudge moves when I scroll the window, alas, just can't quite make it out, something about you buying me lunch for all the helpful tips? Sure, anytime.
Wkend_Warrior
09-07-07, 02:59 PM
Just putting my 2cents if it's ok. Jax bicycle is still doing the sale on 07'Madone series. A month ago, I got the Madone 5.2 for under $2000 and 12 months interest free finance. (I learnt this sale here @ BF and last week, I was there to browse around and they still have the same price tag) The only concern is if they have your size in stock and I dont think it (Madone) is specific for WSD.
I was recommanded to see Paul @ Huntington Beach. He is a great guy and rides with few guys here @ the BF as well.
PS- I met Oscar at Budget. He is a great guy and help me alot. I initially wanted to buy the Orbea from there...a great deal too but I went with Madone...thinking it is more of an all-around bike for me. Time will tell if I made the right decision. Oh, I mentioned Oscar, b/c he just can't give the same deal on Trek vs. Jax. Sorry.:(
That Madone and Lemonde - are they WSD? And thanks again, Ronjon. Now...you want to BUY ME the bike?
suddenly crickets can be heard as everyone exists thread
merider1
09-07-07, 03:10 PM
Just putting my 2cents if it's ok. Jax bicycle is still doing the sale on 07'Madone series. A month ago, I got the Madone 5.2 for under $2000 and 12 months interest free finance. (I learnt this sale here @ BF and last week, I was there to browse around and they still have the same price tag) The only concern is if they have your size in stock and I dont think it (Madone) is specific for WSD.
I was recommanded to see Paul @ Huntington Beach. He is a great guy and rides with few guys here @ the BF as well.
PS- I met Oscar at Budget. He is a great guy and help me alot. I initially wanted to buy the Orbea from there...a great deal too but I went with Madone...thinking it is more of an all-around bike for me. Time will tell if I made the right decision. Oh, I mentioned Oscar, b/c he just can't give the same deal on Trek vs. Jax. Sorry.:(
First off, of course your 2 cents are welcomed! :) As for the info above, I'm 5'5", short waisted and narrow-shouldered. WSD is necessary for me (Patsy, my current bike, fits me wonderfully even if my alignment could be improved). So, I'll call JAX to find out, but Herb and others have a point that I would rather have a local bike shop to take my bike to. HB is just way too far even for a great deal. The drive alone back and forth over a few years would take the deal away from the deal! ;) Oh, and I WISH I could afford the Orbea Diva, but that is a definite no-go, even more so than the madone. :(
merider1
09-07-07, 03:11 PM
They're all WSD. My friend just got the Versailles.
I missed that last question though, my screen is a little smudgy. Funny the smudge moves when I scroll the window, alas, just can't quite make it out, something about me buying you lunch for allowing me to provide all the helpful tips? Sure, anytime. And I'll consider buying you the Madone too...
Oh, well, I think I fixed the smudge so that it can be read accurately....:D
EDIT: Oh, and is this at Cynergy, btw? I wonder if they have financing? If so, I might do that and go get the bike sooner rather than later. (pant, drool, pant)
Jaguar27
09-07-07, 03:28 PM
My Wife likes the Scott contessa.....
I think ill end up getting one for her....
Anyone want a 47cm Cannondale?? Like new only about 500 miles on it....oh...sorry..were not allowed to flog stuff on here so ill swap it for something.....
ronjon10
09-07-07, 03:30 PM
Oh, well, I think I fixed the smudge so that it can be read accurately....:D
EDIT: Oh, and is this at Cynergy, btw? I wonder if they have financing? If so, I might do that and go get the bike sooner rather than later. (pant, drool, pant)
My friend got the Versailles at a place up in Wisconsin. She got a good deal as the shop is basically free from any maintenance issues since she lives down here, and she knows the owner.
Cynergy has the Ruby Comp I mentioned earlier. It's their version of the just under $2k carbon bike with the 105 components. Cynergy does not do free regular maintenance, just the first 30 day thing to tighten up the cables etc. I have no idea if they do financing or not.
Wkend_Warrior
09-07-07, 03:32 PM
So, I'll call JAX to find out, but Herb and others have a point that I would rather have a local bike shop to take my bike to. HB is just way too far even for a great deal. The drive alone back and forth over a few years would take the deal away from the deal! ;)
Jax's has a chain stores, which I am sure you know that. But I also like the fact that you can get 12 mos interest free. Maybe it's just me, I try to get the best deal within my budget...well, actually within my family budget( my other half gets to vote,too:D) and find the service (future maintience) that I like to go to. Does that make sense???!! sorry too many run-on. Another word, Is it improper for me to buy at one place and have the bike service at another location? If money is not an object for me, I wouldn't have a problem to have it all.
[QUOTE]Oh, and I WISH I could afford the Orbea Diva, but that is a definite no-go, even more so than the madone. :( Me too, but it sure would be nice. :)
Jeronimo_
09-07-07, 03:41 PM
Forget the cookie cutter aluminum and disco carbon bikes.
Save your money until you can do it right and then have Jason (http://elcaminofab.com/) or Carl (http://www.strongframes.com/) fabricate some custom steel for you. Go high end on the componentry and it'll weigh close to the aluminum and cf garbage out there, but will last a lifetime and ride like no other bike you have ever ridden. After going custom, nothing else will ever do.
VanceMac
09-07-07, 04:04 PM
A lot of the guys in SFVBC swear by Agoura Cycles. It has always been a bit too far for me, even with the great recommendations (for sales and service). However, they just bought out the small shop at Ventura and Van Nuys, so you might want to take a stroll through there if you get a chance.
A lot of the guys in SFVBC swear by Agoura Cycles. It has always been a bit too far for me, even with the great recommendations (for sales and service). However, they just bought out the small shop at Ventura and Van Nuys, so you might want to take a stroll through there if you get a chance.
You know, that is literally within walking distance of my apartment! I just got a letter from them saying that they had bought out Cycology, but the bikes that were being sold there were Giants. I wonder if they will stock it differently? (I'm sure, huh? Duh!).
Dunwood
09-07-07, 04:15 PM
Other than dough burning a hole in your wallet, why do you "want" a new bike?
Whats wrong with Patsy? OR what would you like to improve over Patsy?
MacManDude
09-07-07, 04:22 PM
How about a Felt FW2? They show one online at the Agoura Cycles website. 2k with some Dura-Ace. The largest is a 52.
Mr. Beanz
09-07-07, 04:25 PM
Jax has some great deals at times. All about timing. I wanted and thought about the Lemond Zurich. They had it on sale for $2000 while all the others were $2400-$2600. There is a store in Claremont (near GMR,not much selection) and one in Fullerton (57 fwy) and Huntington Beach.
We picked up Gina's 5.2 Pilot for about a grand off of others. Of course it was a 'last year's model'.
Mr. Beanz
09-07-07, 04:26 PM
BTW, I'm not so sure that CF is much lighter than aluminum. I think most go for 'the ride' rather than weight savings. Unless you're coming of cromo steel.
merider1
09-07-07, 04:28 PM
Other than dough burning a hole in your wallet, why do you "want" a new bike?
Whats wrong with Patsy? OR what would you like to improve over Patsy?
Patsy weighs 27-28 pounds fully loaded. Now, I realize that I could, should and would be better off economically to just drop 15-20 pounds off my butt. But reality is, that takes time and discipline - both of which I don't have a lot of. KOM is coming up and I'm tired of having other riders (most of them on here) pick up my bike and comment "wow, your bike is really heavy. If you lightened your bike, you'd climb much faster up hills." Part of that IS true (although not all and certainly there are stronger, faster, heavier climbers than me who pass my sorry ass up any hill any day). But, I am human, and all you people have these light, pretty bikes, and now I want one!!! :cry:
On the other hand, my FATHER (who offered to buy me a better bike but I refused as I want him to save his money for retirement) bought me Patsy and doesn't even know yet that I'm considering dumping her. I'm sure he is going to be disappointed in my lack of foresight. He even argued with me at the time of the purchase that a Trek 1700 or Trek 2200 would have been a better purchase (and he was willing to pay it) for the long haul. But I genuinely felt weird at age 36 accepting my dad buying me anything, let alone a toy that I use for my pleasure only. Of course, Dad has always been an amazingly disciplined athlete in his lifetime, so to him, my bike has never been a superfluous purchase. He sees it as an absolute MUST have. I love my Dad.:o
jpconrad
09-07-07, 04:31 PM
BTW, I'm not so sure that CF is much lighter than aluminum. I think most go for 'the ride' rather than weight savings. Unless you're coming of cromo steel.
My CF Synapse is a lot lighter than my wife's aluminum synapse. Of course it's got lighter/better everything. :D
awiner
09-07-07, 04:32 PM
ME, I think it is important that you go ride several bikes. You will be amazed at the difference between all bikes that you will only realize after a ride.
Also, you may want to take a gander at the Look 555. I have heard they are selling for sub 2k these days :)
Mr. Beanz
09-07-07, 04:34 PM
My CF Synapse is a lot lighter than my wife's aluminum synapse. Of course it's got lighter/better everything. :D
Yup, the gruppo is what makes the deeferahnce sumtimes!
Jaguar27
09-07-07, 04:34 PM
I know this is a waste of typing..but I just called my LBS for a price on the Scott Contessa...
Msrp $3200....he has one for $2600 plus one with same frame lesser components $1800.....
awiner
09-07-07, 04:36 PM
A lot of the guys in SFVBC swear by Agoura Cycles. It has always been a bit too far for me, even with the great recommendations (for sales and service). However, they just bought out the small shop at Ventura and Van Nuys, so you might want to take a stroll through there if you get a chance.
ME, if you want to go look at Agoura Cycles, let me know. I live down the street and know everyone there pretty well.
Jeronimo_
09-07-07, 04:38 PM
BTW, I'm not so sure that CF is much lighter than aluminum. I think most go for 'the ride' rather than weight savings. Unless you're coming of cromo steel.
That is an ignorant statement. High end steel built right can be as light as or even lighter than all of the wonder material bikes.
Maybe I'll have to show my mug on one of your rides on my custom steel just so you can see just how heavy chromo steel isn't.
[moderator edited]
Happytime
09-07-07, 04:38 PM
I'm sure he is going to be disappointed in my lack of foresight. He even argued with me at the time of the purchase that a Trek 1700 or Trek 2200 would have been a better purchase (and he was willing to pay it) for the long haul.
ME,
There are a lot of good things to be learned by getting a starter road bike. I was fortunate to get some good advice from my coach, whom I had known for years before I started riding. He told me to get a starter bike with decent components (105 minimum) and just ride the heck out of it. After 3000 or so miles, I should know enough to:
1.) Know what kind of riding I want to be doing (tris, crits, hills, distance, etc);
2.) Get the bugs worked out as far as fit, flexibility and what my body can handle; and
3.) Appreciate what high-end components/materials can do
Nothing wrong with wanting an upgrade. And certianly nothing wrong when your skills outgrow your tools.
Dunwood
09-07-07, 04:42 PM
You'll get lots of bang for your buck with the upcoming winter sales (if you can wait that long).
Are you sure it weighs 27 to 28 lbs? Thats a steel clunker with either hi-ten or Infiniti tubing. My '79 steel Univega weighs 23 and most steel mid 80's DS Centurions weigh around 22 lbs. (not counting the water bottles). A steel Trek will be in the same ballpark (22 to 23lbs.)
Even a mid-level $800 AL frame Fuji will weigh in at 19 to 20 lbs, a huge weight difference.
With winter sales, you should be able to pickup a Shimano 105 equipped road bike for $1,200.
(Eric who still rides an C'dale R400 12 speed with DT shifters)
PlanetU
09-07-07, 04:47 PM
My Wife likes the Scott contessa.....
I think ill end up getting one for her....
Anyone want a 47cm Cannondale?? Like new only about 500 miles on it....oh...sorry..were not allowed to flog stuff on here so ill swap it for something.....
I know someone who may be interested in that size bike. Please e me directly regarding what you "want" for it.
:-)