Looking to upgrade!
 

So I'm thinking about upgrading from my Roam 2, to if not a full-fledged road bike, something close. I ride 90% of the time on paved greenways that for the most part are smooth, but can get a bit bumpy and rough. Especially over the wooden bridges and such. The other 10% I'm on the streets. I generally ride around 25 to 50 miles every other day, averaging about 14-15 mph.

Having gotten used to the Giant family with my Roam, I believe I will stick with the brand. I really believe you get the most bang for your buck with Giant ...currently.

I have two bikes I am considering, the AnyRoad CoMax and the Defy 2 Disc. The AnyRoad at $2000 would be my absolute limit as far as budget, and I really don't foresee myself swaying from what I ride on unless I get more into group events and such, and start doing more street riding.

Just curious as to what you guy's opinions are on these two, or if you think there are others I should be considering also? Is there any other info you would need from me to give an opinion?

How about the Defy 1 disc?

Defy 1 Disc (2016) | Giant Bicycles | United States

It keeps the disc brakes and has the better Shimano 105 group. I've never owned Giant, but they look good to me. Some of the guys I ride with have an older TCR, IIRC. So maybe also consider a used TCR to stay within budget.

Just saw a used TCR Composite near me like this one:

http://newjersey.craigslist.org/bik/5174550958.html

It has Shimano 105 10-spd stuff with the carbon frame for $1200. So the deals are out there.

I may consider the 1, thanks.

I suppose I'd like to get opinions on if what I'm riding on (greenways), if the AnyRoad would be better suited or just go all-out road bike?

If you're going to mostly be on pavement, then the road bike would be best. But if you anticipate some trail riding, then the AnyRoad would be an option. As far as I can see with the specs, the AnyRoad will buy you more space for the 32mm tires. But that's about it unless the bottom bracket is higher like a true cyclocross bike. I can't tell since Giant doesn't talk about the BB in the geometry. It also looks like the AnyRoad has more of a sloping frame so may let you have the handlebars higher up for more relaxed fit. Can't hurt to testride both and see.

UPDATE: Just saw a similar thread (albeit a little older) on roadbikereview http://forums.roadbikereview.com/gia...ce-312942.html

You don't need a whole new bike, just replace the rear derailleur.

A better rear derailleur is all the upgrade anyone needs...

What would be the major disadvantages of the AnyRoad compared to the Defy on the road? Just speed?

Although I agree that Giant bikes are, usually, a good value, I think that brand loyalty has it's limitations.
I always recommend riding several brands and models.
Good luck.


S

You know, everyone says that, and I get it, but quite honestly... it's hard for me to tell by doing that. Don't get me wrong... some are obviously not conducive to what I'm wanting. But for the most part, it's very hard to know what exactly feels best. Especially when you get down to several that are similar. I suppose I just don't have enough experience in this category to be able to fine-tune like a lot of cyclist. I find myself constantly evolving too, which makes it even more difficult.

Bottom line... At this stage, it's really difficult to know what exactly you want and need.

Yeah. You'll probably pay a small weight penalty for the flexability of being able to use 32mm tires on the AnyRoad. A question I would ask the shop is if the Defy can use 28mm tires. If so, then you can get pretty comfy with those. One video of a 2015 Defy I saw showed that the fork clearence was a bit tight. So 25mm might be the max. It looks like they both have rack mounts so no problem there if you want them or fenders.

Yeah, I love my Topeak rack and MTX Trunk Bag DXP.

Thanks for the info! :beer:

What size are you looking for?

xl

Okay I'll keep an eye out. There was a ridiculously good deal on a 54cm here that's why I asked.