Originally Posted by pete1234
I am new to road bike racing, I was a junior international athlete (steeplechase) but injury has forced me to stop running. I was just wondering what the ideal build of an endurance cyclist is. I know I am not ideal as i am 197cm and 80kg, but I was just wondering whether it is worth me even trying to get to a decent standard with my build!? I was also wondering whether a Specialized Allez is a decent enough bike to begin training seriously on?
Here's one study I've found:
IsItBetterToBeLightOrHeavyAsACycling.pdf
However, there's so many variables involved that there's no one "right" answer. The only common theme appears to be you want to have minimal fat on your body with as much and as strong muscles as possible without getting too bulky and heavy.
Specialized Allez is fine, I've had one since '91 and made it to the 1/2/Pro ranks without any problems.
