jsb006

After just getting back into cycling last year (2007), I purchased a Specialized Allez with 105 group. I got biten by the tri-bug and started doing sprint tri's on it. I sold it this spring and bought a Cervelo P2C which I love. I have used the P2 as my training, racing, and group ride bike... I even just completed a 1000-mile benefit ride across Kentucky and Virgina over 10 days on it. It actually wasn't bad, except for the mild ulnar nerve numbness in both hands from riding on the bars ends too much up and down the mountains.

Now, I want to put the P2 away for the off-season and purchase a "road" bike to do more upright but fast riding. I am 72.5 in tall, 178 lbs, and medium build. I am looking for some input comparing the 2009 Cervelo S2 Dura-Ace vs. the 2009 Specialized Tarmac Dura-Ace SL; both are $5,500. The S2 comes with complete Dura-Ace 7900 group set (shifters/brake levers, derailleurs, brakes, and even chain). The Tarmac has only the shifters/brake levers and derailleurs in Dura-Ace, the brakes are Ultegra SL and the cranks are Specialized FACT carbon. I can not afford the $8,500 for the S-Works Tarmac to get the full Dura-Ace group.

1. I plan on doing several rides (2-3) a week ranging from 20-40 miles.
2. I will be riding on rolling hills mostly. Some flats, and only a few extreme hills.

Note: both bikes also come in Ultegra SL versions that cost $3,700 each...

Thanks for taking the time to give your advise and input,
JB

Cdy291

Cervelo comes with better group but you get crap wheels. If you are using the wheels that come with the bike for a long time go with the Specialized. If you could upgrade soon get the Cervelo.

matkinstall

will you race on it? if the answer's yes, i'd suggest the Ultegra, with the money saved going to race wheels. if not, get dura ace. as far as the frame goes, test ride them both and buy the one you prefer.

Blade-Runner

I'd go with the Tarmac.

jsb006

Thanks for the input. Great looking Tarmac Blade-Runner. What is your opinion of the Tarmac with clip-ons and a forward facing seat post for the occasional Olympic triathlon? Most 70.3's and Ironman's are ridden on Tri-specific bikes, but a lot of the pros ride what appears to be road bikes with clip-ons...? Any thoughts?

BananaTugger

A lot of pros ride on a road rig with clip-ons because they have to.

K-S2

To clarify further on his [BananaTugger's] point, drafting is legal in those competitions, whereas normally it is not.

jsb006

Thanks. Makes sense know, I didn't know that it was an ITU rule. I have only raced in USAT races. Do they do anything about their seat tube angle to help save their legs for the run portion? I raced a few sprints last year on a Specialized Allez and when it came to the run, I was outta gas! Since racing on the P2 this year, running is no big deal after pushing it for 40K. I am working up to doing a half-iron next year but want to ride some group rides and train on a road bike over the winter, plus be able to ride with friends and local rides without the more aggressive position...

BHBiker

S2

heyguys

fail