Road Cycling - Deciding between Specialized models

I'm looking to get a roadie to commute to school and do some training for possible competition in the future (racing/maybe tri's). I've looked at the LBS's and have a question about the Specialized Allez.

The two models I'm looking at are the top line(?) that sells for around $1100, has some 105 components, and external BB bearings.
The next model down ($850)has mainly Tiagra components and no external bearings. Both frames are aluminum with cf forks.
The guy at the LBS says the $1100 bike is the best bang for the buck anywhere. He seems like a good guy, but I don't want to buy the wrong thing at that price.

The terrain here is very hilly on the commute side, but basically flat everywhere else. My commute is about 5 miles one way.

Now to the questions:
1. As a converted MTBer, should I go for a triple? Are either of these bikes triples?
2. Is it worth the extra $300 to go with the upline? Why?
3. Also available locally are KHS, Trek, Klein, Cervelo, Serrota, Giant, Litespeed, Raleigh, and Cannondale. Is there something else I should be looking at for $1100 and under.
4. Should I go with steel for a first ride?

Sorry, I know you guys get these questions all the time. Thanks for taking the time to help a noob out.

BTW I am not a weight guy. If it weighs 300 grams more for a better ride, so be it. :D

Hey,

I really recommend going with the Allez Sport model. You'll get an excellent bike for the price you're paying, with tiagra components.
A 2004 model is about $800 and the 2005 model is $900 and has upgraded wheels and a nicer paint job (the black color).
This bike will more than get you through your commute to school and the triple chainring will help you climb really steep hills without feeling like your grandma.

Allez Sport also has a carbon fork and seat post to dampen vibrations, but even on my all aluminum Langster, road vibrations don't really feel too hard.

Sounds like your looking at the Allez Sport (Tiagra components) and the Allez Elite (105 components) I've been looking at these two models as well at my LBS. From what the owner has told me is the 105 components are a bit lighter, but the biggest bang for the extra cash in my eyes is the Allez Elite has much better wheels. The Allez Sport wheels are laced to a Specialized hub while the Allez Elite is laced to an Alex ATX-330. The wheels are lighter and more durable. Plus the hubs are of better quality. This will equate to a faster riding bike with less effort.

As for the Double vs. Triple question. That is a personal choice. Your the only one who knows the terrain in our area and your current physical conditioning. \

To answer your third question. I'd ride them all! Every single one that you may even remotely consider. The RIGHT bike for you is the one that fits you and feels "right."

Steel or AL. I can't answer that question. I don't have experience on an AL road bike yet. My tourer is steel.

I have to disagree with the reccomendation of the "sport" model. For me, simply the fact that the lower model has Tiagra components is enough to make the "elite" well worth the $300.

I feel about the same way with the wheels. You'll never get a better chance to put better wheels on your bike than when you buy it. (Nice wheels are spendy!)

As for the double/triple debate, the battle rages on. I'm sure you can find plenty of arguments for each side if you do a search in these forums.

For me, I'd go with the double because I am never satisfied with the shifting quality on a tripple. IMHO 39x25 is plenty of gear for just about any hill (depending somewhat on your weight and level of fitness). Now, if you're looking for a touring bike, that's a different story, but at that point you wouldn't be looking at an Aleez anyway.

If you should find that 39/25 isn't enough gear for you, you can put a 12-30 cassete on pretty easily (probably for less than $50 installed). That way the bike will still shift better and have the "granny" qualities you may desire for long/steep hills.

I think it's worth it to pay for the New 105 group. My wife just got a Sequoia and went through the same decision and I know she's glad she did.

For me, I'd go with the double because I am never satisfied with the shifting quality on a tripple. IMHO 39x25 is plenty of gear for just about any hill (depending somewhat on your weight and level of fitness). Now, if you're looking for a touring bike, that's a different story, but at that point you wouldn't be looking at an Aleez anyway.

so what's a good Specialized bike that's good for touring for around the $700 price range?

ps: sorry for thread hijacking...