Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 12,286
Likes: 317
From: Lake Geneva, WI
Bikes: Ridley Helium SLX, Canyon Endurance SL, De Rosa Professional, Eddy Merckx Corsa Extra, Schwinn Paramount (1 painted, 1 chrome), Peugeot PX10, Serotta Nova X, Simoncini Cyclocross Special, Raleigh Roker, Pedal Force CG2 and CX2
Hi,
The Allez has been on my short list. The PedalForce is above budget, but not by much.
These bikes have been considered and researched. I would probably like any of these;
Steel;
Soma Smoothie
Surly Pacer
Soma uses a heat treated Tange Prestige tubeset, Surly uses 4120 Cro Mo
Aluminum;
Specialized Allez
Ridley Compact
Planet-X Superlight Team Aluminum
The Specialized Allez has a tapered headset with a 1.5 inch lower bearing. The Ridley is triple butted, light & beefy. The Planet X has a shorter headtube but is the value leader, Is it too cheap?
Carbon Fiber;
Planet-X Pro Carbon SL
Here the Planet X looks like the value leader @ $500 for the frameset, but is it beefy enough for a 210 lbs rider? Should I just stick with Aluminum?