Blueridge1

Hello all,

I am new to cycling (and this forum) and hoping to get a road bike soon mainly for recreation and fitness. I need some help from the experts:

I have a lead on an 08 Specialized Allez Elite that looks to be well cared for and in good shape. I have not had a chance to ride it yet but have done some research on it. It sounds like it could be a good bike for me to start with. My questions are:

1. The website describes the frame geometry as "compact". What does this mean and how would it affect riding? FWIW, the bike in question is a 61 and I am 6'4".

2. What is a fair price for this bike?

3. Is this a good choice or should I pass and keep looking?

Thanks for your help.

garysol1 

That is an awesome entry level to mid range bike.
1. Compact simply means it has a sloping top tube. It is pretty standard now a days. It allows the bike to fit a wider range of people.

2. Fair price....May want to check out completed deals on Ebay. I would guess $600.00 or so would be pretty close

3. Ride the bike and see how it fits you and go from there.

mds2004

Well depends if it is new or not. New the 08 costed $1200 according to Specialized's website, and you should cut the dealer down a bit since its last years model.

Size depends on you, but it will be either 58 or 61. I just ordered my first roadbike a few days ago and after having me ride a few they determined I needed the 61CM. BTW, I am 6'4' too. I rode the 58cm and the handlebars were way too close to me, but again it depends on each person. My arms are longer than 6'11'' and yours may be more proportionate or even shorter than your height. Ride and see.

BTW, take my words lightly as I too am very new at this and dont even have my first road bike yet (tomorrow hopefully). All I have are a full months worth of research.

Pi}{ie

Whats your inseam?

I'm 5'1 1/2 and I ride a bike sized for someone 5'4-5'7 so take note of your inseam. Get sized at a shop before you buy.

Treker

I have the 07 Allez Elite and just can't enough good things about it.

Last spring I paid a discounted price of CDN $1100 (USD $950) for a new 07 model.

Good luck.

kbtommy

I ride an '08 Specialized Roubaix Elite, am 6'2" and it's a 58cm. Different model, of course, but it seems like you're in the right range, but yeah, you need to get on it and see to really know.