Trying to upgrade from my Sekine and these two Cannondales jumped out at me. However, I know absolutely 0 about either bike. Can anyone here give me some insight on which one is the better option? I'm pretty sure either one is an upgrade from what I've been riding.

Hell, for all I know, they're the same bike. I'm still a noob when it comes to recognizing components.

There close. I like the cantilever dropouts on the white one and it looks to have a little better parts. Not sure whats going on with the bars.

_dylan, The white bike is an '89 or newer 3.0 series and the blue bike is an '88 or older SR. There isn't really much difference between them, the 3.0 has some tubing changes, the cantilever rear drop outs and an aluminum fork compared to the blue bike. The blue bike appears to have been repainted. They do look like they could belong to the same owner.

I can't really tell what the components are, but either would be a good choice.

Brad

Ha! They are really similar, but I'm positive they don't belong to the same guy since both bikes are in different major TN cities. The white one is definitely more flashy, which I don't know if I really dig or not.

Hacksaw.....

THe white 3.0 looks to have most of the original gray colored 105 grouppo. The blue bike has a non-original mish-mash of asian/italian parts.

Just heard back from the blue bike seller and he says it has Shimano 105 components and a Mavic 700c wheelset. All I know about the white bike is that it has 25c tires and a Bontrager saddle (that comes from the listing).

Assuming they both fit and are both the same price id go for the white one since its more complete. That being said price would make a big difference

Funny thing, the white one's asking price is actually cheaper. Of course, I don't necessarily care about "completeness" in this case. Just want the one that will work better for longer, faster rides.

Edit: I'm not sold on these Cannondales as I don't need to upgrade immediately. Just want something lighter/better/faster than the steel frame low level beater I've been mashing.

The white one will satisfy all of those requirements. I love mine. Lighter than steel, stiff as can be (a little harsh), and fast.

Sweet. Thanks.

Did you check the C&V classifieds?

Haha actually, yea, I did--and I noticed the Cannondale you're selling. However, I'm looking at trying to get that Cannondale down closer to 200 without having to pay for shipping. I wouldn't want to low ball you that hard, man. I'm also just having trouble talking myself into buying the bike in general since I know I don't need it.

I'd go for the white one for sure, but then I'm biased! I've never found the criterium geometry harsh on long rides, but I have an aluminum fork. That one's steel, so it might not be quite as forgiving. Still, if you're looking for a quick, fast upgrade, you can't go wrong with either one. But what's up with those bars?

If you're getting that bike for close to $200 then that is money well spent. You'll be glad you have a fast bike instead of the old steely you have now. But then again it's easy for me to spend your money

I all boils down to price.

Thats a lot more bike than you have now. If you can find c dales for 200 up there than jump on it.

It's not at 200 as of now... But I'm trying to put the silver tongue to good use. I've watched a lot of Pawn Stars.....