Buying first road bike next week, advice please?

fletcham

Hi,

I am buying my first road bike next week but am on a bit of a budget. I am pretty sure Im going to go for the Giant SCR 4 for £350 with 10% free accessories. However this would just be ordered blind off the internet.

I am now contemplating getting a finance deal with evans cycles for either the Trek 1.5 for about £550 or on of the specialized allez's - I quite like the look of the new 09 one for £579 (triple set).

The advice I am looking for is whether these bikes are worth the extra? Another benefit of getting one of these more expensive bike is that I can get it fitted correctly in store which, by looking at the other posts, is important.

Any advice on which one to go for would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance for your help!!!

DonDaddyD

Hi,

I'm a SCR 3 owner.

Giant's sizing is pretty accurate, I'm 5'11 and have a large and am happy. However, if it was my first bike I wouldn't buy off the internet I would need to see the bike, ride it and feel reassured about my purcahse.

Personally wouldn't go for the SCR 4 if you have the option of spendiing £500 (in other words SCR 2, 3 Allez or Bianchi money).

Yes the extra £200 does make a difference. The SCR 4 doesn't come with a Carbon Fork and has the most budget components of the Shimano range. It is seriously worth and better value for money just to go up to the next price point and spend £500 - £580.

You don't have to go mad and spend crazy money but at the same time not spending enough may leave you with a bike you may not enjoy riding.

Also don't bother with the Trek they don't get competitive with components vs price until you get to about the £1000 mark.

Visit local independant bike stores, good ones that are surprisingly busy, they'll fit you, give you honest advice and given the time of year cut you a serious deal!