Comparing my current bike to a new potential.. advice needed

B.M.R.
B.M.R. Posts: 72
edited August 2012 in Road buying advice
Hi all,

I've really gotten into my cycling, and am possibly looking to purchase a new road bike to replace my existing second hand Ebay purchase from three years ago.

I currently ride a Ribble Frame (not sure on specific name) it's a SC61.10A KET frame.
Shimano 105 gear system and brakes. Normal twin at the front and 9 speed cassette at the back.
ITM MIllenium Forks
Nero Stem
Ritchey WCS Handlebars
Mavic Cosmos wheels
Kappa Prologo seat
Look A 5.1 pedals.

As I'm looking at £1000 or less, I'm kind of looking at the Giant Defy 1 :

Spec here (click the full spec option on the right): http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/bikes/road/product/review-giant-defy-1-12-45849

Now, as I'm the first to admit it, I'm not really up on what is good or how different things compare, so I'm hoping for a few opinions as to how much of an improvement the Giant would be over what I've already got.

I know it's not about the bike, and I'm working hard on improving me, but I'd like a few opinions in case I'm about to drop £700-£800 (C2W scheme) on a bike that isn't any better specced than what I currently own, just newer and shinier (at least until I next forget to unclip at the lights)

Thanks in advance

Comments

  • snoopsmydogg
    snoopsmydogg Posts: 1,110
    if you like the Ribble have you looked at their carbon alternatives?

    many can be had for under £1000 and with similar groupsets to what you use now.
  • ShutUpLegs
    ShutUpLegs Posts: 3,522
    Better off buying some better wheels for your ribble
  • keef66
    keef66 Posts: 13,123
    Sounds like that wouldn't really be an upgrade. As already suggested, if your Ribble fits you, then better spend £400 on some nice wheels (Shimano RS80, Ksyrium Elite type of thing) and tyres.
  • B.M.R.
    B.M.R. Posts: 72
    Thanks for the advice - was also considering this before I saw how well the Giant Defy 1 had reviewed :

    http://www.ribblecycles.co.uk/sed/road-track-bike/ribble-evo-pro-carbon-shimano-equipped?part=SE12SSEVOPROSHIM&sub=conf_SERC

    Its a Shimano 105 and carbon frame, but again (to be annoying, sorry!) is this bike so much better than what I've got that it's worth the £750 payout, or as suggested should I just upgrade the bike I've got?
  • keef66
    keef66 Posts: 13,123
    It's hard to comment cos we don't know exactly what your present Ribble frame is.

    However, if you really want a new bike and to take advantage of your employer's scheme, I'd go for the carbon Ribble you linked to. Bargain if it only costs you £750!

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