Shmoo

Hey guys. I actually did run a search, so I wouldn't be making the same tired ole posts I'm sure a lot of people do. I'm wondering if I should have made this post in the "triathlon" section...but I ran a search in there as well. I may have to crosspost, unless an admin cares.

Anyways onto the question. I'm looking for something sub-$1500 for a road bike. I am pretty green in the biking scene itself, as I have only gotten into biking within the last 3-4 months (I have a GF Big Sur mtn bike). I've already done some research in the triathlon section, and looks like I can go either way (tri-geometry or road geometry) as far as design.

I am training for a sprint triathlon in Aug/Sept, I don't need anything hardcore...at least at the moment. My LBS that I deal with only carries Trek and Specialized. So I'm kind of stuck between these two brands.
So I've been looking at the Allez and 1.2's up to the Equinox 5. I'm 5'7 - 230. I have read some posts of fat boys ruining wheels...so maybe I'll have to upgrade that. I do realize that more $$ = better components and weight. But for training and mini-triathlons, would an $800 bike get me through it as well as a $1500 bike? I know coming from mtn bikes, I'd much rather have a $1500 vs. an $800 bike.

If anyone has any experience in this area, I'd appreciate your input. Thanks.

mjolniir

I am about your weight, but taller.

I've done two triathlon sprint seasons (seven races / season)

The first year I had the cheapest road bike that I could get - a DBR Interval. It had crappy alloy rims but it did the job.

For the second year, and after catching the bug, I built a new tri-specific bike, and its a monster.

I'm now in the process of building a new road bike - but thats a different story.

My recommendation is to go with a cheap but serviceable road bike (even a flat bar) and then upgrade if you decide you like it.

With regards to wheels - Since I started riding again at the end of 2005, I have yet to break a single spoke, or get a single flat that wasn't a pinch flat. Go with the stock ones, and only get a new wheelset if you find yourself breaking spokes.

Shmoo

Thanks for the input. I'm going to look for a used mid-level bike, if I can.

Askel

My $930 Trek 1500 got me through my first tri just fine last year. I don't think spending an extra $600 woulda made me any faster.

At 230, I doubt you'll have any serious wheel issues depending on how nice you are to them. My rather clyde-unfriendly looking 20/24 spoke wheels on my Trek haven't even so much as whimpered once I got south of 240.

tdbmd

I am about your size, 5'8'' and 197 (down from 220). I just bought a new road bike this spring. I bought a Felt F75, which would fit what you are looking for under the $1500 ceiling. I rode a number of different bikes before settling on the Felt. Might be one for you to check out. FWIW

Shmoo

Thanks guys. There is a local guy selling a brand new S32 for $1000 cash. tdbmd, what size did you get?

Askel, I have been looking at the 1.2's and the Allez....I guess they are both the low-budget-entry-level road bikes for Trek/Specialized.

djwright

i did my first sprint Tri 2 years ago on a "comfort" bike. Giant Sedona I think. I look like a dork but it got me there in ok time. The course I am doing is not flat so there is a lot fo climbing.

I am training to do it again and now I have a Trek Portland. I think it will be fine.