Specialized Tarmac Comp vs Canyon Ultimate CF vs Pinarello

wisenedcat
wisenedcat Posts: 16
edited April 2013 in Road buying advice
Hello all,

I could do with some advice, tips etc. please.

I recently had a Madone stolen and, as I'd always had American bikes, I thought I'd get something European. I could either have £2,000 cash or I could spend up to £2,800 if I used their supplier (wheelies and Halfords). If I took the cash, I considered the Focus Izalco pro 3 or the Canyon Ultimate CF 9. If I went with the supplier, I was thinking a Bianchi Sempre with 105 (and upgraded wheels) or the Pinarello Quattro (and upgraded wheels). I took the Bianchi for a test ride yesterday and did not really like it at all. I then tried a Pinarello Due, which was nice, although I'd have to change the stem and saddle asap. For comparison, I took a Venge and a Tarmac out this morning and they were both lovely – so much for the European idea – unless I get a Canyon (or a Focus). Neither of which I have or can try.

I've heard great things about Canyon, but I've also heard great things about Bianchi, and I did not like that at all.

Any thoughts would be appreciated. Cheers.

Comments

  • smoggysteve
    smoggysteve Posts: 2,909
    Are you after a more race like frame a al Madone or something more comfortable? The Bianchi frame is quite aggressive and a bit sharp in its steering. Out of all the other bikes you mention, the Canyon is the only one I would really say I would love to have a ride of. It really is an outstanding bike if you dont mind waiting for it.

    Would you consider a Scott Foil? Awesome bike that I really rate for that cash.

    Edit

    http://www.imaginebikes.co.uk/m3b62s22p885/SCOTT-FOIL-15-CD-20-sp-%28Ultegra-DI2%29-2012/RS_GB/3470

    Ultegra Di2 aswell
  • Hi Smoggy.

    Cheers for your reply. I want something quite racey. I'll be using it in triathlons, but I'm no elite athlete so not planning on getting a TT just yet. I'll also be using it in longer sportives.

    I didn't find the Bianchi too aggressive but I definitely agree with you on the steering – pretty sketchy on some corners. TBH, it just didn't do a lot for me.

    I don't mind waiting (do they take a long time?) for the Canyon if it's going to be the right bike when it arrives. My head says get the Spesh because I know I really like the ride, but my heart (sort of) says urgh, not another Spesh.

    Haven't ever really considered a Scott, don't know why, but that's very tempting. Amazing spec at that price.
  • Any more thoughts? Would appreciate any input. My head's in a spin at the mo.

    Cheers.
  • The scott is very nice boasting Ultegra DI2, what about the specialized bikes you tested?