Originally Posted by HolyInstantRice
1. S-Works frames are the Specialized's top-of-the-line stuff, so I think the E5 is a little better. The difference, however, is marginal and probably near impossible to notice.
2. No, probably not. The 2005 model is probably cheaper because it was last year's model.
3. I believe they are the same frameset, but I've no idea. You might have to ask your local dealer, or go to Specialized's website.
4. Again, probably the S-Works model.
Remember to ride what fits. Good luck!
Thanks HolyInstantRice
Actually, I have email specialized asking what is the difference between the COMP and PRO frameset, but they do not answer my question
(I have other questions in the email, specialized just skip this one.... I believe Comp and Pro is the same frameset too)
In Hong Kong, it do not have specialized completed road bike in the market, it only have the frameset for purchase.
I found that the 2005 S-Works E5 Frameset is made of aluminum for the whole frameset, but the frameset of 2006 Allez Comp/Pro is made of aluminum + a little bit carbon, there is "carbon" at the "back triangle" part of the frameset. (I am sorry that I don't know the English term of that "triangle" part, could anyone teach me....)
From my understanding, the frameset have "carbon" at the "back triangle" should be more “advance”(Am I correct?), so I am still thinking of should I pay $100 USD more for that “carbon triangle”, but at the same time, the name "S-Works" is very attractive too, as HolyInstantRice said, this is top of the line!
And I have checked the official price for 2 frameset, the 2005 S-Works E5 frameset cost $900 USD at 2005, the 2006 Allez Pro Frameset is also around $900 USD too.... So I always have the feeling that using $100 USD dollars more to buy the "new" model and "carbon" triangle is worth.... am I silly?
By the way, is the "carbon back triangle" useful?
Many Many Many Thanks!!
Originally Posted by DRLski
I think you're getting a little confused, the entire Allez line uses E5 tubing with the exception of the Sport which I believe is steel. Also, you also seem to be confused with the order, best to not best is the following:
S-Works
Pro
Expert
Comp
Elite
Besides from a little weight and the components there is not much difference between the S-works, Pro, Expert, and Comp, they are all basically the same frame, perhaps a slight difference in weight but that's all. The S-Works and Pro are VERY similar in components as well. If the S-Works and the Pro are the same price obviously get the S-works just for the name itself but I wouldn't spend too much more on it. As I said, basically you're just paying for components and the name, I mean everyone knows what a S-works is. I do love the Allez and E5 S-works framesets though, they are extremely stiff, enough to knock your teath out, that said they are GREAT for climbing and sprinting, I have a '04 S-Works and I absolutely love it, my butt gets a bit sore on longer rides since I feel every bump on the road but it's totally worth it. The tarmac and robaix bikes tend to be a little more subtle in the feel of the ride than the E5.
Dear DRLski, Thanks for your reply too!! The ranking is useful to me, now I only have last question on the "carbon back triangle" of Comp\Pro Frameset, do you think the carbon is useful at there? (I asked specialized and confirmed that it is carbon at the back). Thanks!