Pantani98

So, I'm looking for some suggestions. Here are my options:

I'm currently looking at an Orbea Lobular with full Sram Rival, Sram GXP crank, and Neuvation wheelset (think lower end). Has a few extra goodies.

My other option: Currently selling my wife's Specialized Dolce road bike. Full Ultegra, Mavic Ksyrium Elite wheels.

Here's the question: I could buy a complete 'cross bike or shop for a frame and build something up with the full Ultegra. Frame and fork would be the biggest expense but there are plenty of deals. Then I'd just have to get a stem, bars, headset, brakes, tires, and maybe a new bottom bracket. Then other thing is the Ultegra cranks on her bike are triples. Is that a deal breaker?

Really curious to see what you guys think. I'm still recovering from wrist surgery so this 'cross season is out, but I'd like to get something together rollin'.

I know this is covered everywhere, but since I'm here. Sizing... I'm 5'9" w/ a 30" inseam. My current road ride is a Medium Giant Advanced. I just don't want something too big that becomes cumbersome for 'cross.

Thanks everyone and have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

333foto

I would go with Rival > Shimano. It has held up through 2 seasons of racing/riding, also, don't forget to factor in the cost of building up the frameset which will easily run you $150+ plus all the parts you are missing.

Cynikal 

I'll second the Rival>Shimano. Plus you can rebuild SRAM if something does break.

Pantani98

Thanks for the replies. I've decided to part w/ the Specialized and possibly pick the Orbea up on the way home from Thanksgiving vacation. We'll see what happens. Thanks again!