Beginner Buying a Bike; Assistance in selection.
Good evening/morning fellow cyclists,
I am relatively new to the sport and have only been at it since September of 2008 using a borrowed bike (Specialized Allez Elite) from a friend. Though it is a bit big for me being 5 foot 7 inches and a porker at 176 pounds. I am currently in a market for a new bike however I would like some advice from a much more knowledgeable crowd. I have read many reviews and sort of settled on three bikes in particular. The type of riding I enjoy the most living in Asheville, NC is climbing. I often ride up Highway 80 to the Parkway and really get a thrill out of climbing and may look towards criteriums in the future. I also plan to participate in centuries like Assault on Mt Mitchell and the Hot Dogget 100. My goal is to ride around 200 miles a week with a good portion of climbing regardless of rides and races. I am looking for a bike that will perform well on the hills and be fully capable of being upgraded when the time comes. A bike frame to last at least a better half of five years.
1. Cervelo S1 (Formerly Soloist Team); Ultegra SL, compact
2. Cannondale CAAD9; 105, compact
3. Jamis Xenith Comp; 105/Ultegra, compact
Your help, experience, and advise are very much welcomed and appreciated.
Thank you,
Monte
Last edited by Montejello; 02-13-09 at 01:32 AM.