Upgrading from 2004 OCR2
 

I've got a 2004 Giant OCR2 that I purchased new. It's a triple, 30-42-52 with a 12-26. I've done a few upgrades over the years and it now sports Ultegra shifters and RD, Tomson seatpost, FSA compact wing pros and stem. Added William's 30's. This is an alum bike with a carbon fork.

I'm now considering moving on to another machine. Why? 'cause I'd like a somewhat smoother ride, and lighter weight to drag up the climbs. I also have the nagging feeling that I can get a better fit than I got from the all-purpose Medium I ride now. Additionally, 9 speed parts will get harder to find at some point. Finally, the newest shifter tech is probably nicer than mine; likely current 105 could top my older Ultegra.

I ride 60-100 miles per week and at age 58 never gonna race. We've got lots of hills where I live.

Budget is around $2500. The OCR weighs in around 22 or so. I'd like to get that number down somewhat. I tested a Cannondale Synapse and a Giant Defy, neither of which really grabbed me, although fine bikes they are. I did these rides back to back, same course, and then jumped on my OCR immediately to do the same so I had some point of comparison.

What I'm looking for is probably a relaxed geometry, all day bike that has some pizzazz. So suggestions are appreciated.

What I'm also wondering is how much difference I may really experience going from the alum frame/carbon fork to an all carbon bike. What have others found in making this kind of upgrade? (that is, after the buzz wore off and it was just day to day riding again and no placebo effect.)

Honestly, I may end up with another triple, which is fine with me, so I don't know that I can drop much more than a few pounds. (Yeah, the engine is already lean at 149 lbs.)

Try a Specialized Roubaix too if you want "relaxed." Some folks find they fit better on one that's slightly smaller than they're expecting.

A Trek Madone in H2 fit might suit you too.

I went from an older Ti frame to carbon and the frame was stiffer, lighter and more comfortable on long rides. It was like a win, win win for me. Same exact group and wheels on both bikes (I only upgraded the frame)

It's getting harder to find a triple! Don't be shy about getting a compact double for the hills though.

One of my issues on the compact/vs triple is this: my 30-26 gives me about, oh 31 gear inches. The 34-28 is a bit tougher, slightly. My knees don't wanna work harder! The Roubaix does come in a triple config if desired. I've had that one in mind but haven't ridden it.

Go full 9-speed Dura Ace 7700 and add a Mavic Ksyrium SL wheelset with Vittoria Open Corsa CX tires...and your current bike will be in the 19.5 pound range. Suddenly, you'll love those hills....