I wholeheartedly agree, even though I'd generally take a lugged frame any day of the week.

I'm still suspicious of that top tube-headlug joint on the production model as on the Road Forum though - I'd like to see that in more detail (and perhaps a few other examples to see if it is duplicated).

-Kurt

Where can we see the Raleigh 2010 bikes?

Short blurb w/ a few pics of the Record Ace here:
http://bikehugger.com/2009/07/2010-r...ecord-ace.html

And here:

http://www.raleighusa.com/2009/07/09...he-record-ace/

Did you think you had a lock on the job?:lol:

Slanted top tube ans 1 1/8" headtube. I'll pass.
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[…availability will be late 2009, perhaps early 2010. We’re in the process of confirming. And the TT is level…just like our race bikes.[/I]

http://www.raleighusa.com/2009/07/09...he-record-ace/

Look at it this way. In just a few years these things will be all over ebay & craigslist for a fraction of the retail price.

Its $610 because its a $400 bike. $400 is what dealers pay for it.

Any new bike drops ~33% in year 1 and upto 50% after year 2.

TampaJim is not impressed.

When people want a bike, and I give them the rundown, and they still want a new one, I can finally point to something out there that's new and affordable and will help my LBS stay in business.

There are some who think the new steel Allez will be a great #2 bike for some buyers and entry-level for others. That's fine.

The possibility exists that it becomes an entry-level buyer's #1 bike, and then that person goes C&V for $200-$300 for their #2 bike, which is pretty cool. Now we've got a rider and a C&V fan.

Taking it further, the same person realizes that they have under a grand into not 1 but 2, count them, 2 bikes, both of excellent quality and quite rideable. What's another $200-$300 for them to pick up another C&V?, and have 3 bikes for $1200, the previous decent entry-level price. You can see where I'm going here....we do this all the time, don't we?

The price is going to help a lot of people rationalize their purchase. I know of at least 4 women who'd like to get into road riding, do not want a "used" bike, but would be very interested in the new Allez. My bet is that 2 of them will buy one. And my bet is that their spouses will be 1) glad they didn't spend $1200 and then 2) decide since they only spent $600, another $300 for a C&V bike to ride along on is justifiable.

Sure doesn't look it in the pictures.
Until I see one and put a bubble on the tube I'll believe my eyes over advertising copy.
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I think it's just the angle that the bike is, in relation to the camera. It's leaning against the wall, and the camera is very low to the ground. You can see the underside of the saddle; both saddle rails. And look how low the far side bar drop is in relation to the one closer to the camera. Then take a look at the shadow of the TT on the wall... It's angled downward, like an old "funny" bike would be.

You can put the level on it when you get up to one in person... I'm betting that if it isn't level or very close to level, then the floor you're on at the time is not level either.

I think the 1 1/8" head tube is a great idea. It allows for a lot more options if someone want the change the headset or stem.

While the 1" on the Specialized is not a deal killer for me, I think they should have made it a 1 1/8". Perhaps if it sells really well, they'll change it in the next year or two. But then, if it sells really well, they also might adopt the stance of, "Why change it, if it's selling?" Still, I'd buy one.

I was thinking the same thing at first but I think it's just the angle of the picture. Now as to the hideous Ultegra crank, semi-aero rims and black anodized components...

I will agree with the crank. And the new DA crank is just the same. I think they are hideously ugly. :twitchy:

But that's just me. I'm more of a C&V guy, though. Maybe the roadies like them? :innocent:

Robbie, I agree wholeheartedly. Sure, it's not true C&V, but it might help more people get into the sport, and some elements of the bike might lead to an appreciation for C&V later on.

I like it a lot. If I had the money - but not a lot of money - I would totally consider that. It is probably just about bulletproof and perfect for commuting, recreational rides, etc. Brifters would add $200 to the price so I think it was smart for them to go with the downtubes.

I agree. That's a lot of seat post showing for a relatively small frame.

J

Not unless you've become pompous.

If you could see the floors of my 'classic New England connected farmhouse' you'd bet on a sure thing.....:D
Was at the LBS today looking through their Raleigh literature, and it looks straight in the official pictures. I stand corrected.
OTOH, the two owners were all hot over the steel Specialized, but it's a Specialized dealer shop so they'll pay the $400:innocent:
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It's not totally C&V style, but I do like it. I hope my lbs gets a couple in to have a look at one.

The Record Ace is supposed to be available December 14th, according to our rep.

He's planning on buying one and stripping the Ultegra off as well.

What's he going to put on it?

After having tested the new Specialized Allez Double Steel at my favorite local road cycling outfitter, I can say - with absolute and complete assurance - that the steel construction and Tig-welded structural joints yielded a frame that was laterally stiff yet vertically compliant.

-Kurt

I have N-O-T-H-I-N-G against Tig-welded frames... I think lugs are prettier, but that's about it. A properly engineered & built frame is a joy to ride, regardless of welding method.

SRAM Red.

I've thought about it some more, and have decided that I'd have to put Centaur or Athena on mine, if I buy one. Actually, everything would change except the frame and fork.

You haven't read Bicycling Magazine or this parody either.

I highly recommend the parody.

-Kurt