das Ben Gator

Hi,
I'm looking to replace my '09 allez frame, which I really like. I've considered the following:

1. 2012 allez E5 framset https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C3lOIC9YNs...%2BCOMPACT.jpg

2. Spooky Skeletor https://gallery.roadbikereview.com/da...Skeletor_1.jpg

3. Soul Faith https://media.photobucket.com/image/s...ix/faith07.jpg

I need a 54 cm frame that handles like the allez. The frame I have is a bit large and have tried the 54, which appeared more comfortable. Because of a back injury, the size somewhat exacerbates it even after adjustments by the shop (not too sure of them anymore: they moved the seat way forward to compensate, in addition to the shorter stem, but now I have more pain in the lower back which I never had before, and they're insisting on carbon). Anywho, I tried a Secteur but it felt slow in spite of its comfort. So I think I'm sticking with an Allez and similar racing geometry. My purpose is general riding and exercise, not racing. I've some Ultegra components that I'd use and maybe a wheelset down the line.

About these choices: I really like the satin black finish of my current ride, so I'm not too sure about the white frameset, which is the only color available for 2012. I like the Skeletor's simplicity, but the welds are a bit 'spooky' albeit strong and I've read some reviews that the fit and finish aren't that good, and that they're a bit pricy. I like the cleanliness of the Soul Faith but I've read comments about shipping, price, and complications of warranty (if ever needed) given that the company's headquarters in Asia.

Friends, I would like your opinion as to which frameset to choose. As mentioned before, the LBS said I should go with carbon but I'm not convinced by it (CF) and that's why I'm staying with aluminum. Thanks.

darb85

The allez would be my choice given how well it rides, and it looks even better in person.. Not to mention their warranty is great. When I had an issue, I had a new frame and was back on the road in a week, start to finish

kiloRH

I don't have any meaningful reccomendation to give, but that spooky looks effin perfect.

Commodus

Well I would definitely buy the Spooky.

sced

Why pay that kind of money for lumpy welds? Shabby chic?

Commodus

"lumpy welds" lol.

jtwilson

Moving the saddle forward to compensate for a too-large bike is definitely not the right answer. My too-large bike causes me some lower back pain, which - like yours - was only exacerbated by moving the saddle forward. Short-reach bars and shorter stem are the only appropriate counter-measures.

FWIW, I think the Soul Faith looks the best of the three.

RollCNY

The Nashbar integrated headset aluminum frame with carbon rear triangle is very short for its height, if that helps your positioning, is dirt cheap, and is very comfortable. And it has lumpy welds

Jaymadd

On pure looks alone the Soul would be my choice. Its also a bike that you dont see very often so its got that exotic factor.

2ndGen

The E5 for a slew or reasons. Familiar geo. Immediate local warranty service if it was ever needed. Probably the best priced version and E5 aluminum is supposed to be the shiznot right now. I'm not a Specialized guy, but of your 3 examples, it'd have to be the Spec.

[Unsolicited alternative opinion: a used BBQ CAAD9 or mattte CAAD10 would be great considerations as well.]

kf9yr

Get a real bike fit before you buy anything else...

Your seat is moved forward, they gave you a shorter stem (more rise too?), and you have pain from a lower back injury.

If you go in for a fit they will check your flexibility and determine the correct size frame for you.

A great fitter can help you become a great rider, none of those frames will make you any better unless you are positioned properly...

yifeng vivi

in my opinion, i like the carbon one.it looks super quality and the carbon frame is more lighter and elasticity than the alloy or others.

dayday82

agreed

thirdgenbird

ive looked at all three as well and ive decided the E5 is the bike for me. they get great reviews, they come with local support, and i am a fan of the 2012 updates. now if i could just find the cash...

2ndGen

Yeah...there's always that little issue, isn't there?

Good luck.

Commodus

Isn't Soul just a Taiwanese importer?

I can't believe you guys would pick a bike like that over the Spooky.

I mean, if it's a money thing I can understand the E5...it's a great deal.

surgeonstone

You must, absolutely must build the allez.

topflightpro

The Allez costs about half what a Skeletory frameset costs. And, you can get it from your LBS, meaning you can get better service if need be. Seems like a no brainer to me.

das Ben Gator

Thanks for your opinions, everyone. The Soul does look darn good, but as some of you have said the Allez comes in easier on the pocket and the LBS will cut me a deal. (We'll see). @2ndGen, thanks, I've seen the CAAD9 and CAAD10 and are good contenders actually. @yifeng, I agree that the CF is more elastic but I just cannot overcome the higher care you must take with carbon frames--unless I've misread my info.