Hi,

I’m looking at buying my first road bike and trying to keep it to <$2,000 all-in (i.e. including pedals, taxes, etc).

I think I’ve narrowed it to the CAAD9-5 and the Trek 2.3. Essentially the same Shimano 105 component spec (other than the FSA crank on the Cannondale). I have no idea which has the better wheelset (thoughts?).

The Trek feels a little nicer to me although I’m biased to the CAAD9 because everyone on these boards seems to love them so much.

Doing some research on this site it seems that many people view the CAAD9 as more of a racing bike…is that why it might not have felt as comfortable to me as the Trek? If that is true, will I likely get used to the CAAD9 geometry with some time? Also, if the CAAD9 is more of a “racing” bike, what does that make the Trek’s purpose? I don’t intend to race this bike, really just use it for 30-50 mile recreational rides, tri training for when I don’t want to ride my Felt S22, and maybe do some group rides if I get the courage…

Thanks,
Matt