Originally Posted by
yomny
I know the main difference is technology and materials used, but most bikes have the typical aluminum, steel and carbon bikes, with a certain set of components from the top companies, SRAM, Shimano... Aside from this, whats the difference, is it a matter or personal preference? I'm new to the cycling world and im trying to educate myself by reading about components, frames, designs, saddles.... everything but man this could be overwhelming. What are the most reputable companies out there or most expensive? I've seen bianchi, pinarello, cervelo.. but then i've also seen these other companies that make their custom builds like pedalforce.com or valdora. What insight can you guys share on this, is it just a matter of what frame and design you like better or does each company actually have a long history behind them? Thanks a lot and sorry if the question sounds so common sense to some of you.
If you're relatively new to this sport (or recreation), it would take some time to develop your riding style. What you like about riding will dictate what kind of bike and its setup you will do the next time you feel like an upgrade or a brand new bike.
Some riders really want to race. They want to be on a training schedule and do intervals, hill repeats, lots of miles, fast group rides, compete, etc. Some riders are just in for the recreation and fitness and fun. Yet, this doesn't mean you cannot get a Cervelo like the kind the pro team uses. There's a bit of "racing" in all of us.
If you have a chance to speak to a professional fitter who is not associated with any particular bike shop, you will learn that most body types can be fitted to existing bikes. Are there compromises? Maybe some. Since you have some sort of affinity for Cervelo, I would suggest that you go visit their site and hear what these two engineers (Vrooman and White) have to say about fit and geometry.