Originally Posted by
zerocool33
I must say I was steering away from the synapse initially. I guess I was more worried about what other people would say about me riding a sissy bike with lax geometry. But I don't plan on racing, and I would like to try a century or two this summer, so I want something that will be comfortable. If I can I want to put about 80 miles or more a week. This is something I am entering in whole hearted, and I am giving up some other hobbys so I can focus on this one. I guess I really don't want to make the wrong decision with this first road bike. I would like to get something with a decent frame that I can upgrade components on and be happy with the frame for a long time. I'd rather keep a frame for 5 years and have dura-ace/sram red/campy record, than buy a new bike every two or three years with 105. Maybe how much I plan on riding isn't worthy of those components in some hardcore riders eyes, but I like nice things, lol. I like the CAAD9 pricewise and in the looks department, I'm just worried it will be a jarring uncomfortable unforgiving ride for 20+ mile rides, or the one or two century rides.
What people think of your bike selection shouldn't even be a concern because you're riding it not them. Trying different bikes is the way to go, don't limit yourself just to one brand because different companies make bikes with different geometries. If you're new to riding then you're probably not very flexible so don't aim for an aggressive looking bike because while it might look nice it might end up being a torture chamber. CAAD9s always get good reviews because they're solid bikes and the low cost makes them a good quality starting point, and while it's a racing frame you can set it up for a more upright riding position and get more aero as your flexibility improves.