Northern California - Allez vs. Fens

Should i get a Specialized Allez or a Windsor Fens.

If the two bikes had the same components , of course i would get the allez. But the windsor has full 105 while the allez has tiagra/sora.



http://www.bikesdirect.com/products/windsor/fens_IX.htm


http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=38458&eid=115



And also. I'm about 5'6 and i am still debating about a 54cm frame or a 56cm frame due to the fact i am still growing.

I've never ridden a Windsor, but I have a 2008 Specialized Allez Elite and LOVE it. By the way, if you're 5'6", I think that a 56cm frame will be too big (I'm 5'10" and that's my size).

The advantage to Specialized is that it's sold via LBS and you'll be fit.

Just my 2 cents!

+1 on the size. I'm 5'10", and ride a 54 or a 55. A 56 would be too big for me. On the 55, I have to use a fairly short stem.

I have a Scott with a mix of Tiagra and Sora that I keep at the Jersey Shore for when I go to visit friends and family. While it's not quite as nice as my Ultegra or Rival-equipped bikes, it's fine. With a bit of patience and knowledge a good dealer will be able to get it shifting reliably. I think the advice to get the bike from a good dealer is spot on.

JB

These numbers are meaningless, but I'm 6'2" and ride a 56. Short torso and long legs, though. My guess would be that 56 is too big, but it's hard to say. Find a Specialized shop in your area and pick their brain about it and go for some test sits/rides.

I am 5foot6 too and ride a 52 comfortably. The only sloper frame I have that fits nicely too is a 54cm Allez. Your best bet is to go to a LBS or a Specialized dealer and get fitted or test ride different sizes. I haven't seen a Windsor in person so I can't comment on that but the 105's are way better than the Sora/Tiagra combo.
Are there any Windsor dealers in the area?

just my .02

I can not comment on either components because I have never used either. I was told when looking for a bike, to get the best components I could afford.