Originally Posted by
flipped4bikes
The Sport has Sora (meh) and the Comp has 105 components (much better). Other than that, not sure what the big price difference is- the wheels? They better be the shiznit hoops. What's interesting is the Elite has SRAM and disc brakes for less money than the Comp, but an alloy rather carbon fork. I have no experience with SRAM, so I can't compare it to the Shimano 105 group.
I own the Tricross Comp v 1.0 (2006) with 105/FSA Gossamer double and I love it. I recommend it because like other 'cross bikes you can fit fat tires AND fenders on it. Incredibly smooth on the road and can take it onto dirt, mud and rough roads and double track. I've even toured on it. The only change I've made on it is a new chain and a Brooks saddle.
Originally Posted by
Big Lebowski
Timely post, since I test rode the TriCross Elite Apex today, but I also took a long look at the Sport. The SRAM and the disc brakes were great (the brushed aluminum was an eye-catcher too) on the Apex Compact, but the aluminum forks were a no-go for me at that price. The Sport looks great. It's on my short-list.
i got the sport for the same reasons. i already have a sirrus with an aluminum fork, and i'm done with that noise for longer distances.
Originally Posted by
flipped4bikes
I agree with the alloy fork being a no go. But I also think that Sora is junk. It's worth paying the extra for the 105 group.
it might be worth it if it was 9 speed 105 with a triple. no way i'm spending more money to get less range and more fragility just to save a few grams. ESPECIALLY on a bike like the tricross. it makes even less sense when replacement parts are figured in. i can put a chain, cassette, cables, bottom bracket, and chainrings on my sora for what a chain and cassette cost for the new 105.
sora shifts just fine. it might weigh a little more, cost a little less, and not get near the street-cred, but it's perfectly acceptable. i picked the sport just because it has a triple with 9 speed, carbon fork, and no disk brakes. i have touring in mind, and in my neck of the woods, that means a triple. i also work at a bike shop, and the disk brakes just aren't worth it to me on this bike. paying more increased replacement costs, less robust drivetrain, and being forced into an aluminum fork, plus only coming with BB5 brakes is a deal killer.