Road Cycling - HELP...buying bike and components-ROAD & TRI

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chasyboy
06-04-04, 10:37 AM
OK...I've been spending way too much time reading, listening, and fretting over which new bike to buy. I'm 46 years old, just did my first sprint tri (now hooked) on my Salsa Campeon (Scandium with Carbon for and stays) with aero bars. I loved it but after going to a pro bike coach, she said that the frame is a bit oversized for me. It's a 54cm and she's recommending 50/51/52 = 54 top. Short legs, longer torso. I'm weigh 210lbs and only 5' 9". This is the first time on road bike in 20 years. Been an MTB guy. Now I will do 4 more sprint tris this year plus a century ride. I'd rather have a road bike vs. a tri bike for right now.

Trying to find a road bike to fit the recommended dimensions has been hard in traditional geometries. So far I've only found the Specialized Roubaix Comp 52 (ALL CARBON) (with Ultegra) at $2100.00. anyone know much about this bike. The guys at Rock N Road swear by them, saying people are racing in them. Super smooth ride...good fit.

Any other recommendations? I sure like Colnago, Saeco Cannondale Replica but too expensive.

Also, the difference between Ultegra and Dura Ace...is it really worth the extra $1,000?

Thanks in advance to all.


spazegun2213
06-04-04, 11:45 AM
hmm, 51 sounds small, but she is the pro, not me. As for a bike, the Robuiax is a very nice cerbon bike, but the "relaxed" geometry is a little too relaxed for my likings. I would say take one for a test drive. some others i would chose are Aegis, Giant, or even build one up yourself, that way you know what you get, and you get what you want. As for the U vs DA, IMHO, ultegra is all I'll ever need, and while DA is lite its not worth the price.