Originally Posted by
everichon
I am stuck between two "compromise" brevet bikes, and I would like your impressions. Aside from "best fit". I am looking at getting either:
- a Felt Z70, aluminum frame, carbon fork, mostly 105 components and weighs less; or
- a Surly Cross Check, which is all steel, weighs more, and has a less desireable compenent profile.
I am irrationally phobic about carbon forks, and would prefer steel, but OTOH, I am strongly drawn to the brifters and the 105-ness of the Z70, and I think it is probably a slightly nimbler bike than the CC. Anybody ridden either of these on brevets?
My personal feeling is that a light carbon or aluminum/carbon cyclocross bike with road gearing is the best bet. Room for fenders and wider tires, off road capable. Should be a little more durable than a road bike.
If you want to do some medium weight touring go with a cross check but for purely brevets you want a light responsive good riding bike thats close to a road bike in feel.