Recommendations on New Bike
 

I still love my starter Dawes from Bikes direct but i think i'm ready to upgrade..
i rode a Specialized Roubaix and WOW!! there is a difference!! smoother, quieter
and the least of my concern now lighter (still nice!).

i still plan on keeping my Velocity Deep V on the rear but i wanted to
see what you fellas think... I'll be checking new and used once i'm ready..
No carbon please..

What do you like? Especially you heavier riders.. what's been your experience with
the different models?

A Roubaix IS Carbon, Chris. ;) Actually, a carbon frame is stronger and a more compliant ride than even a good steel frame, it just has horrible penalty for failure.....

The Roubaix has a little more relaxed geometry than your Dawes. Your Dawes has identical geometry to my Allez.

I weigh in at 263 now and I ride the Trek Madone 6.5. It is a fine bike if it works with your budget.

For what it's worth, I'm on the Surly bandwagon. I rode just about everything during my recent shopping and while there certainly is a difference between common road bikes and a touring/cross bike, when you are a big fella it's not THAT much. I'll go with comfort any day.

That being said, the Allez is a rockstar. I'd love to get one some day, as the things just fly, and man is that fun sometimes. I didn't really ride a Roubiax as I was worried about the carbon, but I'd imagine it's very similar, just a little more comfortable.

Thanks guys!

Tom - Yeah, i was just amazed at the difference between the rides and since it was a short ride i wasnt too worried. I like the geometry of my bike as of now
i don't think i'd want to change that. So i think i'll go test ride the Allez and see how i feel.. it's price range is more comfortable also.

Pharding - Nice ride man!! but yeah that $$$ is a little steep for me now...i just became a restaurateur may 2nd.. Sooooooo lol.. $$$$ is everywhere else! but in my pocket.. lol .. Hopefully i'll earn the right to own that kind of bike.. weightloss and $$$ hahah

Bdinger - Yeah i talked to a guy last year on a ride that LOVED his surly! seems
there pretty indestructible hahah Incredible Surly HULK.
Yeah i think i'll look into the Allez for sure, I'm always fighting that....OOOH that looks cool!! lol.. or that looks FAST!! lol.. sad really i cant help it!

thanks for the comments folks! i'll keep you updated.. Tom i may be joining team specialized ...well not THAT team but you know what i mean! lol

Chris, I think you'd absolutely LOVE the Allez. :D Don't sweat the "Carbon" seatpost it comes with, it's carbon wrapped over aluminum.

Here's Black Beauty all numbered up and set up for Tri and TT racing.

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o...thlon024-1.jpg