Well I rode my first cross bike today, an aluminum Redline Conquest Pro selling for $1200. I am use to riding a MB with slicks, on light trails and on the streets. I liked the overall looks of the Redline bike which is equiped with 105 comps. What I didn't like was the overall ride and I don't know if it was that I am not use to this type of bike or that this is one hard riding bike. The brakes and shifters worked well but the frame (54 cm) seemed totally uncomfortable and when going onto the drops it was totally bad. It felt like too short of a top tube. When in the drops the front hub was well back of the handlebars. The seat was just horrible. I rode a couple of miles and called it a day. I believe that this Redline is probably a good bike but it certainly didn't have any of the comfort I was looking for. My question is: Should I check out other Cross bikes like the Bianchi Axis or Fuji Cross or do you think that all of them will give me the same overall uncomfortable feel. All of this is only my own perception and I am no way saying that this bike isn't a good quality bike but it certainly doesn't make riding fun for me.
All opinions welcome.
-Mo

If you can find one to test I would say ride the Bianchi Axis.

For what it's worth, the redline has a reputation for being a pretty stiff, harsh ride. Getting the right fit in a 'cross frame can be difficult if you're coming from MTBs. But all bikes are different, and there's a wider range of variety in geometry in 'cross bikes than in road bikes. Try a whole lot and see how they feel.

No, I won't give up on the "cross" but I am somewhat disappointed with this first attempt. I am in a transitional move to Littleton, CO from the midwest later this month and I know there are lots of Bianchi LBS around. I was interested in the Litespeed Appalacian until I realized that the $1700 was just for the frame.... Thanks to both of you for your input. Might let you know what the outcome is if you are interested.
-Mo

It sounds like you just have the wrong position over the bike or maybe the wrong frame size. Why not try and get fitted on the bike before giving up on it. If you run into the same problems later, you will know what to do because you took a few minutes to figure it out now.
I know for me, a 1mm off and the saddle feels like crap. Getting fitted to the bike is important.

Maybe the stem and saddle are wrong for you. Maybe the height of both, maybe the bars are too narrow or wide. etc etc.

If you are coming from mountain bikes, ALL road bikes will feel harsh in comparison to those fat tired rides. If you are not used to road bikes, maybe you just need to get adjusted.

The Bianchi and Fuji aren't any better than the Redline.

---they are all equally good bikes, I know there is a Axis owner here, don't want to offend him ----

UNLESS, you find one on sale. Mine, purchased for 799.