Newbie road bike and kit advice please!

Robin_D

Hello!

I'm taking on road biking this summer and am already training for an event in September.

I've been looking at a Cannondale CAAD 8 105 and have been recommended both 54 and 56cm frames.

Also wondering what pedals would be best. Does any one also have experience of cycle clubs in North Warwickshire?

Many thanks,

Robin

fatsmoker

Try these
http://www.kenilworthwheelers.co.uk/

http://www.cyclechat.net/threads/warwickshire-bike-clubs.58637/

Some nice routes around North Warcks- enjoy yourself.

i don't know sh1t about pedals so won't answer that

Robin_D

Thanks for the links, I'll take a look.

Cheers for being honest

kingderham

Mike Vaughan cycles are a good lbs.

sparky543

+1 for Mike Vaughan.

Robin_D

Thanks for the advice..

The main information I'm after is about the biggest differences I'll find between the frame sizes. I don't want to spend£1050 on a bike to find out it is too small.

kingderham

Go to a bike shop and try out different bike's, a good shop will not mind spending time with you, just because somebody recommended size 54 or 56 is not good enough, also a Cannondale 56 is different to a Cube 56,you need to sit on them and ride them to get a feel for what you prefer.

unixnerd

CAAD8 105 is a great bike, I recommended one to someone last week!

As for pedals don't get SPD-SLs, they're too difficult for newbies - especially in traffic. SPDs are far easier to get into and you won't find yourself half way across a junction doing 2mp trying to clip in and failing! Also SPD shoes tend to be more suitable for our climate (current week not withstanding) as road shoes tend to have a mesh top. Plus you can walk in SPD shoes.

Robin_D

Thanks for all the advice, I spent some time at Wheelbase in Cumbria and tried both the 54 and 56, after a ride on both I went for the 56. It seems good and can't wait to get out on it now.