fbxcore

So, I can get a Fuji Roubaix RC for $1250 or a CAAD9-5 for about $1200

The RC definitely has better components...Full Ultegra, but I'm still leaning towards the cannondale frame even though it has full 105 components.

What do you guys suggest? Has anybody here ridden an RC? I really am torn between the two.

dmotoguy

have you ridden them both yet?

adamt

I know this will sounds crazy - coming from me...

get the fuji. yeah - I said it.

ride it for a while on the Ultegra kit. then - next year or whenever - buy a caad9 frameset used. swap out - sell the fuji etc...

dmotoguy

seems backwards... a caad9 w/ 105 and then upgrade (to campy ) whenever you get the chance....

enjoi07

if the only difference is one step up in components...get the caad9...id say get the caad9 anyway...but i tell everyone that.

"hey im looking for a carbon fiber bike" ----get the caad9

"hey i need a new sweater for my dog" ----caad9

sheddle

CAAD9-7, sell the Sora, get Rival, curse Cannondale for not selling a CAAD9 as a frameset.

fbxcore

No, I'm going to try to get out to the stores in the coming weeks, it's not that easy because I don't have a car with me and I'm going to have to try to find rides to get to the stores.

I don't think that the stores have the right sizes in the models I want so I'm going to probably have to test ride different models with the same frames, the fuji RC they have MIGHT fit me, it's a 56cm but I was fitted to a 58cm Trek 2.3, but I don't know how the frame geometry differs so I'm going to have to see.

I'll have to order the cannondale if I choose to buy from the other store in Sacramento because they don't even carry the CAAD9-5, just the lower caad models.

ridethecliche

It's cheaper to buy an ultegra groupset than to buy a CAAD9 frameset.

Also, the differences between 105 and ultegra are mostly weight savings and finish. The internals for the shifters and other parts are the same.

dmotoguy

well...if its that much trouble, save the hassle and go with the caad then!

the test ride was just to show you that, so you werent just going off of this crazy bike forum's recommendations.

fbxcore

Does anybody know how the frame characteristics differ between the two bikes? I'm assuming CAAD9 still is more stiff, better handling etc...Also the frame quality, does anybody know where the fuji frames are manufactured?

And, anybody know the warranty info on the cannondale frames? Fuji gives a lifetime warranty on theirs so if I crash it and the frame gets owned, I get a new one...Just wondering how cannondale compares.

enjoi07

whats so crazy about it eh!!!?

tombailey

You might want to check that warranty. Are you sure it isn't lifetime against defects? Usually crashes are not included. They may have a separate crash replacement policy.

I could be wrong, but you should check if this is something that's important to you.

merlin55

It is your money and your bike...dude, everbody like the brand of the bike they ride/sell.

Where the frames are made doesn't matter. FYI Cervelo and Orbea Carbon frames are made in China. My Fuji Roubaix RC aluminum frame was made in Taiwan...so what.

johnnyedge

I own a caad7 and my buddy has an RC. Both are great bikes but mine is noticably lighter. A lot of people may complain about how harsh a full aluminum frame is on long rides but I have no issues with it. Caad frames are made in the states so you support american jobs. I love my caad and plan to get another for this coming race season. Cannondale also has a frame trade in program which allows you to trade your old cannondale for a new one at a discounted price.

save10

I think the caad9 is the official bike of bike forums.

sheddle

I thought it was PCad's S2

otakux

I have to say caad frames are light. Well light enough for me. Its deffinatly an upgrade over my allez. If your in davis i can show you mine one of these days.

enjoi07

majority rules....and it does matter where your bike is made, that is, if you care where your bike is made.

MadCity Cyclist

I agree: