prorobo

Alright bf folks, last thread of this kind from me I swear! After spending nearly a week checking out each and every lbs around me and even some not so local, I have the opportunity to pick up a 2013 Giant TCR SL2 105 for $1,275 out the door. I liked this shop the best out of every one I've been to and along with the Giant lifetime frame warranty, I'll get 10% off all accessories for life. I rode the bike and it felt and looked good but I have some questions for the knowledgable folks here.

First, it's not a complete 105 group set; only the shifters, derailleurs and brake levers. The brakes are R561, cassette is Tiagra 12x28 10, and crank is R565 34/50. So what are the thoughts on this mixed group?

Second, is this a comparable bike to the Caad 10-5 which is the other bike I have been looking at? I have been unable to find the one I want for a decent deal and I've never tried SRAM so I'm not going to buy one sight unseen even though I could get a deal on a '14 Rival.

Please help me out! This bike buying process is making me go insane!

BarryJo

IMO $1275 isn't such a great of a deal for last year's model which retails for $1550. If they're a Giant dealer they should be able to get you a similar deal on a 2014 with 11sp.
My own experience (3 Giant TCRs) has been this is about the time of year Giant starts trying to deplete current year inventory to make room for next year's stuff.
And 10% off retail isn't such a great deal.
I know how painful buying a new bike can be, good luck!

RoadMike

Push them for a better deal than that...a 2013 should be selling for near cost at this point with the 11 speed 105 coming out on the 2015's.

Tell them they'll have to do better or you want to order a 2015.

prorobo

What would be a realistic better price? $1,200, 1,150? I'm almost at the point of going online-only already as this has been such a headache dealing with sales guys and their agendas. Though I wouldn't know where to begin looking online.

BarryJo

If the bike shop is a decent one the people working there shouldn't have an agenda and the process should be a whole lot less stressful then what you're going through. A good shop will work with you to sell you the best bike within your budget and offer routine maintenance after the bike is sold. 2cents.

roccobike

IMHO, 18% off MSRP is not bad. If you decide you want the bike but you're looking for a better deal, you can ask them to throw in some equipment to sweeten the deal. Don't go crazy trying to get the best deal, your time is also valuable. Remember, the longer you put off buying, that's time you're not riding the new bike. I can't compare the TCR to the Cannondale, but I can tell you Giant makes one sweet road bike as mine just turned 8000 miles.