Originally Posted by
steve001
I'm in the same boat for a future build.
I'd appreciate any knowledge of best bang for the buck frame for around $600.
Currently I'm sitting around 150lbs, so frame strength is probably not an issue.
If I was 150 lbs, I'd go for the Planet X carbon. At my size, this frame is less than ideal, and could be a little flexy.
Originally Posted by
Rutnick
Those soma frames are nice. I second the 2011 Allez. Cheap, nice, light and lifetime warranty. Another option and I don't know what their prices are is call up Jade Cycles over in Holland, Michigan. I hear they have been making their own stuff or having stuff made.
I would trust a lifetime warranty of Allez or a steel Soma over some cheap chinese frame with zero warranty off ebay.
Jade Cycles looks awesome. Custom carbon, who knew? Outside of my price range. A warranty is a must, I agree.
Originally Posted by
chackern2
I have done what you want to do, although in a different manner. (2) years ago, I bought the Specialized Allez bike, so that I could start riding again. I bought it knowing that I was buying a nice frame, that I could get on the road and then customize it to what I wanted. As of today, I have changed out everything but the cranks and stem. I cannot speak for the other frames but, I can say that the Allez responds well to just about every condition: uphill, downhill and flats. I used to race and I would feel very comfortable with this frame in a road race.
The Allez does look very good. I've been able to find complete bikes for $750 with dealer support. I have a Sram Apex group, but I might use the standard drivetrain for a while before upgrading. The standard drivetrain would find a home on a winter bike by years-end.
Originally Posted by
roadiejorge
I can speak to the Ridley Compact which is a handy bike I enjoy riding. I bought it to be my main commuter/rain bike but wanted a bike that I would enjoy riding since I like to work on training during commutes. In this regard the Compact has served its role very well, so much so that I take it on long group rides as well.
The Ridley looks solid and has a lust factor the other bikes don't have. I have a Ridley fork on my CX bike. It's smooth yet solid and helps the bike carve up the road during high speed decents.
Originally Posted by
Rutnick
Yep, that's my size ;-).