speedracer7722

Hi all. First of all, sorry if I am repeating someone else's question or breaking some other forum rule that I don't know about.

I am currently an avid runner and am looking into getting a performance road bike. Right now I have an old Schwinn Le Tour II that I ride around but not anything too serious (mostly because I am afraid I'm going to break it in half). I am looking for something that I can really get a good work out on and do some races.

Like others on here, I don't think I am going to be able to buy something new (or at least I will get a better deal going used). I've been told that I should look for at least 105 components on a bike. What I haven't been able to figure out is how often does Shimano upgrade these parts? If I am looking at a bike made in 2005, say with 105 components, will those be equal to 2010 105 components or will that technology have "trickled down" so that they are now equal to new Sora components or something like that?

My second question is about sizing. I am 6ft with shorter than normal legs and a long torso. Should I look to fit the seat tube length or the top tube length. And, is it possible to compensate for dimensions that don't necessarily "fit" me with different seat posts or handlebar stems? Would there be a downside to this? Are there any brands that fit longer torsos better?

Thirdly, when I go to buy the bike what types of specific, non-obvious things should I look for to make sure I'm not getting ripped off? I am an engineer and pretty mechanically inclined but what are some things that people often miss?

So overall I'm looking to spend somewhere between 700 - 999 dollars. Here are a couple that I've found that look good to my untrained eye:
-- Masi Gran Criterium w/ Dura Ace everything except brakes (no year), $850
-- Fuji Pro-Series, Dura Ace w/ helmet, shoes, gloves, computer (2003), $1000
-- Specialized "Limited Allez" Carbon (2008), $550
-- Corsa AC Carbon/Aluminum (2007), $750

Thank you in advance for any help/advice.

10 Wheels

This may help you.
https://www.competitivecyclist.com/za...LCULATOR_INTRO

canam73

All of the shimano groups are on their 2nd generation of 10 speed groups. The easiest thing to look for is the shift cable. If it is coming out of the side of the shifter it is the older stuff where as if it is hidden under the bar tape it is current addition. Groups tend to get redesigns every 4 or 5 years.

Top tube length is generally thought to be the most important size tool, but within reason saddle and stem adjustment can certainly help with fit.