Aimulator64

I know specialized seems to have a more high-end background than schwinn, since schwinn makes 120 dollar bikes, and so on. However, Schwinn does make 6000 dollar bikes, and i need an opinion on two different bikes. There is the Schwinn Fastback Comp, with Tiagra back, sora front, and a tripple front chainring. the Allez comp is $19.00 less, but with the same shimano components, except the Allez is a double front chainring. Both are aluminum with carbon forks, and the websites do not tell the weight of each one. Which one is a better deal? i might be able to get a discount on the schwinn, but not sure.

longbeachgary

They're both entry level bikes made in Asia. Try them both and see which fits better.

AngryScientist 

are the brifters both tiagra, they'll make the most difference in shiftability. after that - ride both and see which one "feels" better. you'll know which one is right for you after riding them back to back.

Aimulator64

both bikes have sora brifters. im not sure if i can get a test ride on the schwinn. i know the specialized dealer will let me take one.

Tober1

Eh if they're both equal after riding I'd go Spec. Probably better warranty wise, though I can't be sure. I just have a hard time buying a brand who sells bikes at Wally World.
I also rode the Allez and liked it quite a bit, ended up with the CAAD9 though.
If you can ride one of those I'd recommend it

Good luck. Have fun and go ride some bikes!

AngryScientist 

do not buy a bike you dont know a lot about without a test ride. any dealer that wants to sell a bike better let you test ride it, if not, you dont want to buy from them.

Aimulator64

thanks. if im serious hed probably let me ride it. i like the paint on the schwinn better, but i have also always had a thing against mult-brand companies that make more than one thing. its completely up to the price and the fit of the bike. both bikes look nice (i like the matte black on the allez) and if the schwinn feels better, ill go with it. i dont like their logo though...

kayakdiver

Since this is a first modern road bike..... if you get into it and want to sell it down the road(upgrading)..... I'm pretty sure the difference will be far greater than $17 in resale value. More people will be interested in something other than a Schwinn on Craigslist or eBay. Right or wrong Schwinn has stamped Walmart quality perception on what may be a decent bike.

My 2 Cents.

fbxcore

+1

g3ck0

+2

Aimulator64

ok thanks. ill most likely go with a caad 9 or an allez sport comp. not sure which one has overall better components, but i hear alot of good things about the cannondale.