Newbie to Road cycling & racing (looking for advice)

Liam 2010

Hi guys, I've been MTBing for just over a year, and recently I started covrering long distances on my MTB, which is fun and enjoyable, but can be hard work sometimes, even with slicks on.

So I've decided to get into road cycling.

So I'm looking to get a road bike that is fast, light, and with good handling, but that's also comfotable enough to cover really long distances on. So I guess I'm looking for a comfortable racer that's durable enough to do long sportives and tours.

I'm willing to spend quite a bit, but not too much. I don't really want to spend more than 1600- 1700 pounds, but I'm quite happy to go up to that mark.

I was wondreing if anyone on the forum can suggest to me any good bikes that fit that bill?

I've had my eye on a few bikes, such as the specialized allez elite 2011, the specialized tarmac elite sl2 2011, and the specialized secteur elite 2011. I haven't ridden any of these road bikes, but I intend to if I buy one of course, but can anyone speak from experience about the quality of the above 3 bikes?

Any advice will be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance,

Liam

Avanti Roman

All decent enough bikes, Specialized tend to be higher at the front but the Secteur and Roubaix very very high at the front - great for commuting and for making those new to road bikes feel more comfortable but less efficient once you get past 25mph.

Personally I feel more comfortable with a lower front end - you really need to try for fit.

Also look at Cannondale Synapse, Scott CR1, Cube Agree GTC & Orbea Onix.

Ribble have some great Sportive bikes (I have a Gran Fondo) but you would be best to go and get measured and advised at their Preston depot/showroom before ordering if this is your first road bike. The guys there are very helpful but get really busy at lunchtimes.

scoob49

Don't make the same mistake as I did! Make sure you go and try them out at the shop. Purchased my Claud Butler on the internet and yeah I love it but should have spent a bit more time researching and testing before going head first straight in! Just wanted to get out on the bike!!!
I believe I could of got a better bike. In fact I know I could. Take your time and make sure you know exactly what you want.

Liam 2010

Thanks for the advice guys, I'm going to get my bike this saturday, so I'll definitely test out a few rides before I purchase one.

I think I might go for the tarmac elite, it seems fast enough, but at the same time won't be too uncomfortable on the longer rides.