jrawr

I am new to road biking and have been stuck on these two bikes. Which bike should I get?

2010 tarmac elite - $1550
2012 allez elite - $1100

I've ridden both but it's a bit hard to decide. Also, I've tried the CAAD8, CAAD10, and supersix but the Cannondales just don't seem to fit/feel right - it could be because I really like the look of the Specialized bikes but I'm not sure.

Namji

Do your research and get the bike you "feel" the most comfortable in.
Getting a bike based on "looks" is going to suck in the long run. Good luck.

tagaproject6

If the bike fits, I would get the Tarmac.

TrojanHorse

What components are on each of those you .listed?

And... one's carbon, one's al - if you can't tell the difference, get the Allez.

If you can tell the difference, get the one that makes you want to go ride it every day.

jrawr

It's hard to tell when riding the bikes around the block - the tarmac does feel smoother but the roads around the shop are in pretty good condition (not potholes or cracks). Would the two year difference in the two bikes make a difference? I also think that both bikes have the shimano 105 components, but i'd have to double check.

Bacciagalupe

I wound up going for an Allez instead of a Tarmac. It was more affordable; ride quality is excellent; geometry is the same; components are good.

Since the bike was a little cheaper and made of aluminum, I don't feel compelled to baby it. I'm sure CF can take the same punishment as the aluminum, but I just don't feel as bad about it.

I guess the question is, are you willing to shell out $450 for a slightly different road feel?

himespau 

I don't remember model years, but do both have 10 speed with all routing under the tape? That should have happened by 2010, but just making sure. If they both feel the same and have similar components, might be better to go with the cheaper one unless the more expensive one makes you smile more and want to ride it more.

jrawr

the $450 doesn't bother me too much - I was more curious as to whether or not the allez 2012 would eclipse the 2010 tarmac since there's a two year difference. And I guess if I knew the tarmac was a good deal - I'd be more inclined to spend the extra.

himespau 

How much do 2012 tarmacs run? Is there a big discount for the 2 years?

jrawr

Google tells me that the 2012 Tarmac Elites run about $2700. The 2010 Tarmac Elite had an MSRP of $2200.

TrojanHorse

See if you can get the shop to let you take it on a longer ride... around the shop tells you nothing.

But no, the 2 years of newerness is unlikely to provide any tangible benefit unless there's been a step change improvement in the components (9 spd vs 10 spd etc). That's probably not the case for you.

garciawork

I had a... 2008 Tarmac Elite I believe. First road bike, munched by a car a couple years later. Otherwise I'd probably still be riding it... I'd get the Tarmac. Pretty sure they updated the carbon layup in 2009 or 2010 as well, so that never hurts.

jrawr

I will probably see if I can take it on a longer ride. I believe the components did not change (yes both 10spd) - not sure about how the cables are routed. If I am unable to ride the bikes for longer it may just come down to whether or not the tarmac is a good deal.

garciawork

I would say that the Tarmac is a better deal, and you MAY be able to talk them down a little bit, or get some goodies thrown in. They probably don't want to keep sitting on inventory from 2010 anymore.

gveng

If money isn't an issue, then Tarmac all the way. There is nothing wrong with the Allez (I have one), but when you can upgrade to a full carbon bike for ~$450, that's a no brain.

jrawr

Looks like I'll be getting the Tarmac unless anyone can come up with a compelling reason not to or some weirdness happens. I will probably pick it up at the end of the month. All of you have been very helpful. Thanks!!!

Bacciagalupe

How many 8-balls can you get for $450?

jrawr

Once again Google has provided me with the answer. Depending on the state; one can get between 1.5 and 2 8-balls for $450. Haha!!