Ride 2 Work scheme, £800 to spend, what to choose?

Dr S

As it says. I've got £800 to spend at Evanscycles, I'm after a road bike for general fitness, maybe a little touring, maybe a TT at some point but mainly just general road riding.

Who can give me a run down on the options from Evans, Trek 1.7 looks good, its got fancy spokes!

Cheers Nick

edhornby

hi nick, just had a look and they're doing the last of the 2008 kona zings for 750 and they are pretty good spec... or a bianchi via nirone

the trek is pretty good too, you should go and get some test rides, for that kind of cash you want one to fit you

bice

I am probably the only one here who wished our cycle to work scheme was with Halfords not Evans, as I really liked the look of the Boardmans.

But I bought the Trek 1.7. It is a good bike, though limited use for me. I think all Tiagra would have been better: simpler, sturdier. Trek 1.7 wont take mudguards, which is a serious pain as crud goes straight on to chain. Also, not much use for London commuting: discourages getting off the road and using cycle tracks, which are safer. A bit too fancy. But great fun in countryside for a blast.

I do not want to be negative. It is a really nice bike, but a pretty serious enthusiasts' one.

Is the 2009 different in specs to the 2008?

bice

I am probably the only one here who wished our cycle to work scheme was with Halfords not Evans, as I really liked the look of the Boardmans.

But I bought the Trek 1.7. It is a good bike, though limited use for me. I think all Tiagra would have been better: simpler, sturdier. Trek 1.7 wont take mudguards, which is a serious pain as crud goes straight on to chain. Also, not much use for London commuting: discourages getting off the road and using cycle tracks, which are safer. A bit too fancy. But great fun in countryside for a blast.

I do not want to be negative. It is a really nice bike, but a pretty serious enthusiasts' one.

Is the 2009 different in specs to the 2008?

jimycooper

i think evens do them. saracen tourmelat is £800. its got campagnolo veloce(the equivalent of shimano 105) mavic aksiums £120 in shops. carbon seat stays, and a good ITM finishing kit.
i dont hasve one but i have a friend who does and he loves it.

FSR_XC

bice wrote:

. . . . Trek 1.7 wont take mudguards, which is a serious pain as crud goes straight on to chain.

Try SKS raceblades or similar.

FSR_XC

I spent my CTW money on an Allez Elite.

I love it!

Was a tough decision when I saw a Bianchi though. :P