Frame vs Components

Hud69

As a newbie, I am finding my way through the maze that is choosing my first road bike. I have shortlisted a few bikes I will test ride them all, but I am surprised at how different the spec of bikes of a similar price can be.
Consider the following 3 bikes;
1. This bike is praised for the quality of the frame, but it comes with Tiagra groupset and average wheelset and tyres.
2. This bike has a frame which is not rated as good as no.1, some 105 components, but not the brakes which are noted as the weak point, however good wheels and excellent tyres.
3. A bike with a good frame, but said to be on the firm side, but has full 105 set inc. brakes, and pretty good wheel/tyre combo (though not as good as no.2).
So my question is this: Is it frame or components I should be prioritising ? Which of the 3 bikes would you choose as a first bike? (Not withstanding the usual answer of the one that feels best when you test it)
Thanks

andywrigley

You can upgrade your components much more easily in the future than you can a frame. Fit and geometry are probably the most important factors, but if its a matter of ranking the rest of the components then you will probably notice the wheels, tyres and brakes much more than you will differences in drivetrain, certainly between Tiagra and 105.

Also don't underestimate how the bike looks. I find riding a bike that looks good and is a bit more individual makes me a happier rider - maybe that's just me though.

Tom Butcher

I'd pretty much ignore the tyres and I've never found a firm frame a problem so I'd get 3 - though looks could sway me.

FSR_XC

3 - as long as it fits, feels comfortable to ride and looks good

blackpoolkev

Great frame, 105,nice wheels-£1380
http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/products.php?plid=m7b65s6p4324&tbv=CANNONDALE_SYNAPSE_CARBON_105_Road_Bikes_Racing_-_Road_Racing

pkripper

get a frame that fits and feels the way you like your bike to feel. This may not be the on-paper best frame.

second wheels.

the rest is all chuff and easily replaced.

Grill

3, then 1, and if I had to 2. Frame is the most important thing and the biggest expense so you might as well go with the best you can afford. Everything else can be upgraded in time.

essjaydee

I had a similar dilemma recently, and opted for the frame over components, although I'm happy with the components, but will upgrade wheelset next year

likeakipper8

I got my first road bike last year, and went with the frame over components. Mine came with Shimano 2300 groupset and nothing special in the wheels/tyres department. Had no problems with it and have now relegated it to 'Winter bike' status as I have ordered a new bike with Ultegra. Still had no problems with the 2300 though, but the Ultegra was a bargain and will be on a better frame as well.