https://www.specialized.com/SBCBkMode...l=road&my=2003

Well, it's finally over. I thought that I had it narrowed down to the Lemond Alpe D' Huez and Specialized Sequoia Expert. I went to do one last test ride of these two bikes and for some reason I just didn't seem as comfortable this time on the Lemond. Tried different frame sizes and different stem sizes and I just couldn't seem to find the sweet spot that I was looking for. Part of the blame is that I am looking for a "comfort" style road bike (because of big tummy) in a steel frame. I just couldn't get my reach correct with the Lemond.

I did a test ride between aluminum and steel and decided that I wanted steel. I REALLY liked the Sequoia Expert, but it was aluminum. If there was a steel version of the Sequoia it would have been a no-brainer. I decided on the Specialized Allez Elite in the steel version. I do miss the easily adjustable handle bars and extra brake handles of the Sequoia Expert though. I took it out for a 10 miler last night and might adjust the stem some, but I'll wait for a couple of more rides and then decide.

This was my first time using the clip-in pedals. Wow!!! What a difference. I haven't fallen yet, but I riding with virtually no traffic and in a place to where the "surprises" are limited in number. My day will come I'm sure.

Not necessarily. I've been riding with clipless for years and never had one of those - "Oh no I forgot to take my foot out" - experiences. I know that most people do and it's understandable, but not mandatory.

Nice bike by the way.

And for anyone too lazy to follow the links:

Nice looking back. I like the classic panel graphics. Reminds me of the Lemond graphic from before this year.

I bought my wife the Allez and she wanted the extra brake levers like you mentioned. The LBS was able to order them for $25 and install them for $10. He said it was a pain to install so you may want to consider having the LBS do it.
If you really want the extra levers, you may also want to consider ordering them.
Enjoy the new bike!

Sweeeeet ride. Hopefully we'll meet up on an organized ride sometime.

Zack

I'm assuming these are the break levers that mount on the handlebar, so when you have you're hands on top you have access to the brakes. A few companies make them, they range from $25-$70..

Congrats on the bike. It's a beauty. You won't regret going with steel, especially after a long hot century.

Nice ride. yeah, falling due to your clipless pedals isn't mandatory, but all the cool kids do it!

as he said those brakes are a pain because they are mounted to the cable from ur normal brakes... meaning cutting housing, pulling the cable all the way out up to that point etc etc.. unless u kno what ur doing with setting up road brakes i would just have them do it.

nice ride

I wish they put the 105 cranks on the Al version...