Originally Posted by
baj32161
Such as? Are you telling us that for a beginning, or just returning rider returning after 15 years would regret the purchase of an $800 road bike?
Today's entry level bikes out-perform bikes of the same level 15 years ago. They are lighter, STI Shifting has replaced downtube shifting, materials and components technology have trickled down to a point where entry-mid level componentry is more than good enought for most of today's cyclists (including myself)/
What kind of HUGE compromises would he be making?
1) The weight of the bike
2) 105 is a much better gear set.
I believe in buying a new bike once every ten years and with a Cad 10 you could be happy and competitive for long time.