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Old 08-16-14 | 09:41 AM
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ashesh
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Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 1
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From: Wisconsin

Bikes: Leader 725, Fuji Delcaration

Orbea Orca, Masi Evoluzione, or...?

I'm in the market for a new road bike, as I'm planning to start training for road racing next season. I'm pretty small girl (5'2, 100lbs) and was recommended to go for a 47cm frame. So far, it looks like this kind of limits me for options. I fell in love with the Orbea Orca, but the 47 only comes in a women's specific frame, and I haven't been a fan of these in the past. A local shop is ordering a demo for me to ride, but I'm also disappointed in the colors offered (white/black, or black/purple... I like flashy bikes!) I've been looking at other options near me (my area is VERY limited on performance road bike dealers by the way), and saw that I can get a great deal on the Masi Evoluzione, in my size, in a non-women's frame.. Of course, this too must be special ordered, so I haven't had a chance to ride it.
I want a bike that rides very stiff and is a good climber. I realize that as a beginning racer, I don't need something GREAT, but I do enough riding for these things to matter. I road an older model Orca that was in stock (and also too big) to get a feel for it, and I did like how stiff it rode, but I don't see too many of these being raced (any reason for that?)! After reading about the Masi, it sounds like its stiffness and climbing abilities are just okay, but that was only from the couple of reviews that I could find.
Has anyone had any experience with racing either of these bikes? Or any recommendations for others that might be a good fit? Of course, I'd rather build up a bike, but I begin working with my coach very soon and don't have enough time for that... I'm picky. Right now I'm just planning on buying a complete and upgrading components over the winter.

Thanks!
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