2 New Bikes in Two weeks!
Well, I only got to keep one. Purchased a new Novara Randonee from REI 2 weeks ago. Took it home road it 4 days (approx 40 miles). Nice bike, but it didn't do much for me. I was transitioning from my old MTB commuter and wanted something with drops, lighter, faster. I had test road a few other bikes and really liked a 2009 Specialized TriCross Sport. REI was running their 20% off sale and the Randonee was about $300.00 less than the TriSport. Long story (too late) short, I took the Randonee back for a full refund from REI (great people to deal with) and went back to my LBS and picked up the TriCross yesterday. Spent an hour getting fitted and going over the features of the bike-threw in a bottle gage and spare tube. Went for a short spin when I got her home and immediately knew I had made the right choice.
Lighter, more responsive--just what I was looking for. The Randonee is a great bike, just not right for me or the type use I was getting a bike for, plus I was able to buy local and support my LBS!
Tim