memebag

I have a 2007 Trek Pilot 1.0 that needs more love than it deserves at this point, so I'm going to replace it.

I do solo and group rides. I'm not fast. Solo my average speed is around 16 mpg. In group rides I tend to do 18 or 19 mph. My solo rides have a lot more traffic lights and stop signs.

The Pilot has a very relaxed position, and I'm finding myself wishing it was more aggressive. I slide my ass back as far as I can to stretch out and that feels better. So I'm looking for something like that.

My budget is around $1,500 to $2,200.

I'm going to test ride some CAAD12s. I'm leaning toward aluminum because I can afford one nice bike, but I can't afford to replace it if I bang it into something, and I'm pretty clumsy.

What other bikes should I be looking at in this price range?

Steelerfan14

I would give consideration to the Trek Emanda ALR 6. 300 series aluminum is super stiff and lighter than some low end carbon bikes. The 6 comes with carbon seat post and FULL Ultegra gruppo. They are on sale for around $1800 I think. I an a new owner of the ALR 5. I love it. If I had more cash I would have gone for the 6 series.

sevenmag

With that budget, you should be able to get a great aluminum bike with high end components. A trek Emonda AL, or a Specialized Diverge.
The CAAD you mentioned may be the one of the best Aluminum bikes currently made. I don't own one but from what I've read, they put more R&D into AL everyone else.

Specialized Allez might be another one to look at. They're great bikes.

jfowler85

Gallons of what?

Do you have access to a local shop? Go test ride some bikes.

PaulRivers

Fyi, that sounds like your current bike frame is to small. Be sure to try a size larger when test riding and see if they fit better.

Specialized Allez definitely if you want more aggressive.

Hapsmo911

I have a Caad12. Love it. I also loved my Caad10. You might be able to find a Caad10 on closeout. My LBS still has a few in stock at great prices. But if not the Caad12 is well worth the money.

memebag

Thanks for the advice. I rode a few at the LBS yesterday. A Cannondale Synapse, a Scott Solace and a CAAD12. All with 105.

The Synapse had the more upright position like my current bike. The Solace had similar geometry to the CAAD, but it seemed to weigh the same as the CAAD even though the Solace is carbon fiber.

The CAAD triggered my primitive pleasure centers, so I ordered a 2017 with the "barbecue red" paint. Should be in next Tuesday.

goenrdoug

congrats! you're going to be floored at what a difference the bike can make.

Yeah, yeah, "it's the rider, not the bike," but to go from your current ride to the caad12, well, it's going to make a significant difference.