Direct me to a good guide for buying an entry road bike

alex.e.c

I know these guys are out there, and I half expected to find a sticky topic in the forums, but after some searching I've not managed to find one

rake

any halfords technician will set you straight.

Super Domestique

What is it that you want to know?

Tap into the knowledge base on here with a few questions if you like.

For starters - what is your budget? What type of riding do you do?

HebdenBiker

What's your budget? What's your size?

Suffolkwheels

http://www.bikeradar.com/forums/viewtop ... 7#16626097

Berk Bonebonce

The phrase 'entry level' is only really used by magazine sub-editors who are not that good at their job.

alex.e.c

Good point. I've not provided enough info.

Price: around £550
Size: 21"
Riding: mostly commuting, currently 13-16 miles a day, but this could increase to 28 miles and occasional long rides (over 100 miles)

I've looked at Specialized Allez, Trek Double, Giant Defy and Bianchi Nirone. A couple of conversations I've had descend into componentry (e.g. Campag vs Shimano), but I'm after a bike that is a good all rounder, and where the first thing I want to do with it is not upgrade some parts.

Thoughts?

nochekmate

alex.e.c wrote:

Good point. I've not provided enough info.

Price: around £550
Size: 21"
Riding: mostly commuting, currently 13-16 miles a day, but this could increase to 28 miles and occasional long rides (over 100 miles)

I've looked at Specialized Allez, Trek Double, Giant Defy and Bianchi Nirone. A couple of conversations I've had descend into componentry (e.g. Campag vs Shimano), but I'm after a bike that is a good all rounder, and where the first thing I want to do with it is not upgrade some parts.

Thoughts?

Sounds like you've already considered the most likely suggestions - as far as Shimano/Campag is concerned, it's a matter of personal preference, as they'll both have their supporters & detractors

Essex Man

All the bikes you name are good bikes - you won't go wrong with any of them.

You should consider gearing though. Around London a double chainset will be fine, if you are thinking of taking the bike somewhere hilly, consider a compact double or triple chainset.

Philby

You now need to get a test ride (or at an absolute mimimum sit on each of the bikes adjusted to your dimensions) on each and buy the one that fits best. If that fails buy the one you like the look of most.

KnightOfTheLongTights

alex.e.c wrote:

Specialized Allez

I went for this a few months back (£450 at evans) as my first real bike, and very pleased with it.

It's a bit ... boring I suppose, specialized are like the ford of bikes apparently, but it's great value.

I'm using it for a short commute and then real rides at the weekend. Using a road bike to commute through the winter does mean it's going to take some stick so frankly I don't think there's much point in spending any more. Specially as my maintenance skills are shoddy to say the least.

If I really get the riding bug then I might at some later date get a nicer bike to ride properly, and keep this for commuting.

Perhaps foolishly I didn't do any fitting or test-riding - I just ordered the size according to the sizing guide and they made a few adjustments in the shop, and it feels great.

I got the triple, which isn't very cool riding with the big boys round Richmond Park but I was glad of it when I took it up to the Lake District ...

Super Domestique

I'd say the Allez is worth a look too. I have a 2010 version. I looked at various rivals at the £500 price point and the Allez just won me over. Partly on looks, yes, but also as such a good all round purchase and great vfm. I had £50 worth of accessories thrown in plus a free bike fit and first service so can't complain.

My father was impressed and he grabbed one too, although he went for the silver version (mine is the red) in the recent sales. He got his for £400 so was well pleased.

KnightOfTheLongTights

yep the red looks a lot nicer - they didn't have any in the triple unfortunately so I ended up with silver

simon_e

alex.e.c wrote:

I'm after a bike that is a good all rounder, and where the first thing I want to do with it is not upgrade some parts.

Thoughts?

It's a good time for discounts on 2010 models. Visit some shops, sit on some bikes, ask questions.

Once you get to RRP above ca. £450 then all bikes are fine; some will be a little lighter or better spec'd but they will all do the job very well. If you're spoilt for choice and end up choosing on colour that's perfectly acceptable.

In the end it's your money and your choice, a bunch of strangers on a forum can't tell you what's best for you.

Alumin-Liam

Essex Man wrote:

You should consider gearing though. Around London a double chainset will be fine, if you are thinking of taking the bike somewhere hilly, consider a compact double or triple chainset.

Don't be a girl!