Decisions, decisions....
 

Hello everyone,

I am new to road biking and looking to purchase my first road bike. I have no interest in racing, the purchase is more for fun and fitness and to get out and do some group rides with friends.

I have looked at Giant, Trek, Fuji and Specialized. I am leaning toward the Specialized Secteur Elite with the Apex group. Does anyone else own this bike? and what are your opinions on Sram Apex. My LBS happens to have a left over 2011 for $1000. Is this a good price or would a 2013 with the new Sora group be a better purchase at $990?

Thanks for you help!!

I'd take the apex over sora for 10 speed vs 9 speed. The apex cassette will be really wide but you can change that later to suit your speeds. Might see if you can get them to throw in a helmet or a decent discount on the other stuff you get with it since it is older.

I just bought that exact bike about 10 days ago.I tried the Trek,Giant,and a Cannondale Caad 10 and the Secteur just felt right.It wasn't until I got the Specialized that I realized how uncomfortable the 1991 Raleigh I've had since new was.I really like the Apex shifters and I think you will be much happier than with the Soras.$1000 is a good deal.That is the exact price my LBS had but I was able to get them down to $900.I think the bike was originally about $1300.

really nothing more to add...everything Chris said was right...if the Secteur is your size jump on it now....riding season is here deals are about to be gone.