Clydesdales/Athenas (200+ lb / 91+ kg) - This sport IS addicting...

I just started road cycling almost 4 months ago. Currently riding a Leader 736R frame that I built(105/Ultegra/FSA) on my own. Its been great so far, rewarding most importantly since I wanted to try road cycling in order to help me get back into physical shape. I peaked at 238 pounds this past May, and as of now, I weigh in at 214 pounds. I would've never thought that this sport/hobby was one I would entirely enjoy. Now comes the addiction...

Just purchased a NOS Kestrel RT700 for my next build. I love the Leader frame, but I'm ready to take the next step and build a new bike, better frame, better components. I'm just afraid to see whats next on the list.. and so is wifey :lol:

Ah yes, the bike lust sure is pricy isn't it?

Make sure you post us some pics when you get around to building the new one!

I'm hoping to get this build done within the next couple of weeks before it gets really cold in NYC. The frame is scheduled to arrive either this wed or thurs; I've got a mix of 105/Ultegra on the Leader now and have been happy with it but I'm leaning towards the Ultegra SL group set for the Kestrel build. The wheels will have to wait but hopefully a nice, cf clincher for the following spring season ahead.

Fast forward... I ended up with a new Kestrel RT800 frameset, which was even less than what I had paid for the NOS RT700. Although I favored the RT700 color(bronze finish), that frameset arrived missing parts and eventually was returned after a lengthy dispute via paypal.

Specs:
09 Sram Force brifters and front derailleur
09 Sram Rival 53/39 172.5
09 Sram Rival rear derailleur
1070 cassette/1090r chain
3T Team stem 100mm
3T Team cf handlebar 44cm *great deal from grasschopper :thumb:
Selle Italia C2
Elite cages
Look Keo laneos
Easton ea50 SL
Hutchinson equinox tires

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3290/3285223997_a7151ccfb4.jpg

OOH!, a pretty bike. I don't even ride drop bars and I covet it. :)

OOH!, a pretty bike. I don't even ride drop bars and I covet it. :)

Welll, there went a commandment. ;)

What the hey, though, it's a beautiful bike, and I covet it as well. ;)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3290/3285223997_a7151ccfb4.jpg

Well done!

Thanks for the feedback. It was worth the wait getting all the parts together to finish this build. During that that drought while I didn't have a bike after selling the Leader, I ended up back in the gym and now spend more time working out then riding. But I did reach my goal of 185 right before the holidays and it feels great. I do look forward to adding mileage onto this bike, especially after taking it out last weekend. What a difference overall from aluminum to carbon, and with choosing Sram over Shimano.