In cycling, the best components (that money can buy) tend to be light weight components. However, at your weight with the consideration of safety, it's hard to suggest some ultra expensive stuff, which tend to be ultra lightweight also. Therefore, I would recommend Campy Record or Sram Red groupset with a reputable frameset:
Parlee Z2, Look 595, BMC pro machine SLC, Pinarello Paris or a high-end Merckx. Make sure you spend the rest of the money on some nice strong carbon wheelset. In cycling, anyone who works can save up to get a dream road bike...it's bicycle not a yacht. How much can you possibly spend before realizing that the best of the best can be had for less $20,000 dollars?
Originally Posted by
2old2tri
Serotta v. Time v. Look
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I am one of the "fat, rich, guys" that many seem to have a problem with. "Rich" being relative. I have been biking for 3 years (to spend time with my 20-something kids and to get exercise). I started with a steel bike ($300), then went to an aluminum bike ($2000 new), then to a titanium ($5500 new). I have gone from 269 lbs to 235 pounds and won my first event (a sprint triathlon for 40+ Clydesdales). We won't talk about my time. Let's live for the moment.
My wife, who has much more money than I do, offered to buy me the "bike of my dreams" for my birthday this month. I realize that the "motor" is more important than the machine, so spare me any comments along that line. I am improving and can afford a machine that transcends my ability level. I am not trying to show off or be better than anyone else. I just want another type of bike.
I want to keep riding my titanium bike for my recreational rides (MS 150, centuries, etc.). I would like a quality carbon bike for my shorter sprints (9 miles to 24 miles). I would like to tap into the experience of all of you. I am looking at Time, Serotta, Look, and my one friend suggests Specialized Tarmac (I could afford the S2). Opinions?
Thanks.