Originally Posted by
sambb
is there a big weight issue with not going carbon fiber?
It seems as a beginner who is serious, the components may be more important?
I am not a racer, just want to keep up with my friends
You may not be a racer, but to keep up with friends, you might be riding hard like you did 10 years ago.
There are 9 versions of the Cannondale Synapse, from alloy to hi mod carbon. The Cervelo RS has one version as far as frame material. Take a hard look at the rear triangle of both bikes.