Need help! Cannondale CAAD9 6 or Trek 2.1
 

Hello all,

I am a newbie to the sport and really know nothing at all about cycling. I recently completed my first duathlon on a borrowed bike. The bike was too small, but my only option to see if this was a sport I wanted to invest in. I realize I really do enjoy cycling and want to buy a bike of my own. I am on a limited budget and have found two bikes.

1. 2009 Cannondale CAAD 6 with a full Tiagra package for $950.

2. 2009 Trek 2.1 with Tiagra shifters and 105 rear derailleur for $1050.

These two bikes are located at two different local bike stores. I rode both and both seem comfortable to me, therefore I am at the point where I'd like some advice. I plan to do more duathlons and possibly move into some sprint triathlons. I also plan to do plenty of rides in the 20-30 mile range with some longer. Which would be the better bike to get that I won't outgrow quickly? Also, I am 6'2" and 215lbs. Thanks for any help you can offer.

They're actually both good bikes. Get the one that fits you better and is the more comfortable to ride.

They are both excellent bikes. Here on BF the recommendation is the CAAD9. I was in your buying position last May. It really comes down to which bike fits you better. The CAAD9 is much more racey and that is reflected in the riding position. The Trek 2.1 handles very well and is performance road bike, but not really a race bike. I ended up buying the Trek 2.1. Almost 2K miles without any issues. Fit is the most important criteria, if you do not fit the bike you will not ride it. Good Luck.

I was also in the same position about a year ago. I ended up with the CAAD9. I love the heck out of it. Much like you, I posted here. Everyone told me to get a C'dale. I'm a lemming, so I did. It's a great bike. I don't think it's too harsh at all. It's wonderfully stiff, climbs like a mountain goat, and it's seeeexy.
The 2010's are even nicer.
I'd say C'dale, but I'm bias. Ride them and whichever one makes you smile more, get that. Oh and make sure the colour matches the helmet you've already got :)

Which bike shop did you like better? Was one more friendly/helpful than the other? Do they both offer free adjustments? If you like both bikes equally, I would suggest going with whichever one is at a shop you like better. Remember, you're not just buying the bike, you're buying the shop, too.