What are your thoughts???
 

First let me say in advance that I appreciate all comments and answers. I currently have a cannondale F4 and now im thinking about purchasing a cyclecross bike. I've been researching for weeks and I cant make a decision. The bike I purchase will mainly be on the road (NYC/N.Jersey) but from time to time there's a good chance I might travel off road. I dont want a road bike because I might sell the F4. I want the bike to be fairly comfortable for long rides and most of all I want a frame that will last me years. I dont want to have to upgrade from this frame because its design is getting old. I want something I can upgrade the components as my skill level increases and I dont want the frame to be the week point on the bike. I have about $2000 to invest and below are the bikes I was considering. BTW Im 5'7" 175. Again Thx a lot really!!!

1. Colnago World Cup (I believe I like the look of this one the best)
2. Bianchi Zurigo
3. Felt Cyclo X F series
4. Giant TCX series
5. Specialized Crux
6. I like the look of the Raleigh bike also but with all the manufacturers, Im really getting overwhelmed and there's no way I can ride them all.......

I can only comment on the Specialized Crux. I got one in June to compliment my Trek Madone, and I absolutely love this bike. My dealer gave me the 2012 Specialized Crux Disc for $1600. I thought about the Apex version, but decided it was best to have it shift like the Madone. It shifts much smoother than the Madone, and I'm finding myself on it more than my Madone. BTW, I am 5'10 or so, and I got it in a size 56. Perfect according to my fitter. My whole purpose was to get it for rougher pavement rides in some areas, and ditch my Mtn. bike which always makes my hands numb. I did change the aggressive tires for more street tires. The frame, while aluminum, feels very light. The ride is so smooth on the larger tires. I am most comfortable in the drops, and spend 90% of my time there.

Great review on the crux! I read that the crux was a little stiff and transmitted vibrations compared to other. Ikes in the class. It's good to hear that you don't have the same complaints. Thx a lot for your reply!!

I saw that Cannondale is coming out with a CaaDX that uses Shimano Ultegra and has disc brakes for about $2200 retails.

I too am looking at the 2013 Crux and TriCross Comp Apex (does not have a carbon fork) but cannot decide to fork over the money when I have been a staight bar guy for so many years.

I know what you mean as far as the $$$$ goes! I called up a couple shops that carry the world cup and of course they said is a very well put together bike BUT, he said he didn't know off hand if it was assembled in Italy or not. He quoted me $1930 for the 2012 and that comes with lifetime service. They also recommended Focus bikes??Before I throw out the money, I'm doing my research and making sure its right for me. Hey Wardman, if you absolutely hate the bars cant you replace with a flat one??? (forgive me if that's a stupid question)

Yes - I could replace the bar. I'm still looking though to see if anything comes like that standard. The Surly Ogre has been recomended and I need to see if I can find one to try around me.

I was just looking at bikesdirect too - seems to be great deals there on the Fantom Cross Pro. Not that I would ever order on line for this, but interesting pricing and some aparent cost savings. makes me wonder what the cost is of a TriCross vs MSRP.

I can't comment on any of the other bikes, but I had a Crux for one season and it was absolutely killer for racing.

Thx for all the advise!! Hey extremist, was that crux rough on the road?? I mean does the frame transmitt road imperfections to the point u don't think it could be used comfortably for 50+ miles????

Very nice Bear! Did the Tricross come with the additional brake set too on the top bar? I'm torn between the Crux and Tricross and from what I see, it's mostly a carbon fork difference. That said, I'm guessing cost is about $1400 on each based upon some research and my LBS doesn't want to work with me.

Fantom and straight bar??? :-)

That said - the Cannondale CaaDX is also $2200 list with Ultegra.

Exteme - why did you get rid of the Crux (I see you said "had")

The SRAM on the tricross elite has the top brake levers (and shifter too I think), not sure about the standard or sport model. Specialized has the 360 degree view of the Elite on their website.

Well guys thanks for all your help. I decided to keep my Caad F4 for dirt and trails and I picked up a Cervelo Dual for the road. Surprisingly it's really comfortable for me on the road. Again thx for your help!

Hey sorry I didn't get back to you sooner. The crux was pretty great on the road, I had a nice two-bike set up between that and my mountain bike. As to why I sold it, I ended up being injured through the 'cross season and ended up selling it for a straight road bike instead.

No worries man, hope those injuries are healing up!