Triban 7 or Felt F85? *EDITED*
MasterOfNone
Posts: 40
Hi,
Firstly, apologies for the generic topic but it's something I'm really struggling to come to a decision about.
My budget is £600-650. I live in London and have only ever owned mountain bikes, believe it or not!
I'm looking to commute to work, 8miles one way with 1.7miles on a canal tow-path. Originally I was toying with the idea of investing in a Hybrid but I have made the decision to get a road bike.
My heart was set on the -
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/specialized/allez-c2-2014-road-bike-ec052336
But have read really good things about the -
http://www.decathlon.co.uk/triban-7-a-id_8239802.html
To those with the knowledge, looking at the spec of both, what would you say is the best value for me?
Really appreciate your time and I am completely open to other suggestions.
Firstly, apologies for the generic topic but it's something I'm really struggling to come to a decision about.
My budget is £600-650. I live in London and have only ever owned mountain bikes, believe it or not!
I'm looking to commute to work, 8miles one way with 1.7miles on a canal tow-path. Originally I was toying with the idea of investing in a Hybrid but I have made the decision to get a road bike.
My heart was set on the -
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/specialized/allez-c2-2014-road-bike-ec052336
But have read really good things about the -
http://www.decathlon.co.uk/triban-7-a-id_8239802.html
To those with the knowledge, looking at the spec of both, what would you say is the best value for me?
Really appreciate your time and I am completely open to other suggestions.
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Comments
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Out of those 2..... most definitely 100% the Triban 7
Firstly the groupset is much better. Two models above that used in the Specialized - Tiagra instead of the Bottom Range Claris.
The front forks on the Triban are carbon compared to the Spec bike. The seatstay is also carbon. So overall the Triban frame is lighter and will absorb a little more of the road noise on the front. The Specialized is just under 10kg, the Triban Just over 9kg.
Just because it has the words Specialized on it doesn't actually make it a better bike. You end up paying for name tags.
HOWEVER if it was me, I would also look at this and use the savings towards some kit : http://www.wiggle.co.uk/felt-f85-specia ... on-2013-1/
Its a Felt for starters with tad better spec and ever so slightly lighter than the 7.0 -
It really depends on how smooth the canal tow path is and what type of surface it is to begin with. If it is a bit rough, uneven you may want to look at a cyclocross bike as they will stand up to more punishment than a road bike. They are similar just a bit more robustly spec'ed and a bit heavier.
If it is smooth enough the 2014 Allez gets a lot of good reviews as being a fast light bike. The other bike has a better spec overall. Do some test rides and see what you think.0 -
Thank-You for the replies. It's just the kind of advice/reassurance I was looking for.
The tow path is all pavement/concrete.
I am thinking of getting the Schwalbe Marathon Plus tyres fitted straight away for the fact that they are resilient and suitable for winter riding. I'm assuming that these would be OK to fit on the Triban?
Reviewers have laid minor concerns with the weight of the Triban wheels but I think as a novice, this wouldn't be such a problem...?0 -
100% the Triban out of those two too IMO.
Specialised spec is v poor. The aluminium fork is a crime!
Do not think you really need a cross bike. They are fantastic but not needed for a tow path. £600 will go a lot further on a road bike and it will be lighter/faster which will hopefully mean you will use it for more than just the commute.
If you are in Evans, look at their 2014 Pinnacle Dolomite 3 as an option to the Allez.
Sora (new 2013 version) is a good groupset and you could fit some 28mm tyres for more comfort on the tow path.0 -
Marathon plus are quite wide and too knobbly I think.
28mm is the widest you can go on a road bike (some only 25mm) so Continental 4 Seasons would be my choice.
Very grippy, puncture resistant and fast rolling.
You do not need heavily treaded tyres for a tow path or trail, and they will be hard work on tarmac.
If you want bigger tyres you will need a cross bike (Even then I would stick 28mm tyres on for your stated use).
Do not think Decathlon sell them but look at the 2013 Pinnacle Arkose 1 if you are in Evans. They are reduced to £600 and have Sora with a carbon fork.0 -
Excellent, Cheers!
A lot of food for thought. I like the look of that 2013 Dolomite but I'm still leaning towards the Triban. It's more a gut feeling. I guess the best way to find out is to go in-store and test ride! I'm sure I'll be using it for more than the weekly commute...weekend road trips and park circuits etc.
Advice heeded on the tyres, thanks for that tip!0 -
You should be able to test ride those two easily enough.
I know Evans are great for test rides and Decathlon seems to get good reviews on customer service so guessing they let you ride the bikes too.
A decent test ride should make the decision easy.
Oh, not wanting to confuse things, but I also agree 100% with what rickeverett said above about the Felt on wiggle :oops:
He edits more than me lol.0 -
Have just noticed that edit, cheers!
You're right, that's a pretty impressive set up.
HMM...0 -
sorry I edit too much sometimes :oops: . But yeah the Felt is the best deal I have seen around that price.
The Triban is usually a commuter bike - seen lots use tham as commuters. The wheelset is heavy but I wouldn't worry about that.0 -
Cheers, buddy.
Am taking your advice on board and the Felt has slipped in as a strong contender. Especially at 40 quid cheaper.
The bike will be used primarily for commuting. Decisions, decisions!0 -
MasterOfNone wrote:Cheers, buddy.
Am taking your advice on board and the Felt has slipped in as a strong contender. Especially at 40 quid cheaper.
The bike will be used primarily for commuting. Decisions, decisions!
Seriously mate go with my suggestion of the Felt before its too late. Deals like that go fast on wiggle.
Your getting a £800 Felt bike for just over £550 with full carbon fork, Full Tiegra group set (apart from the chain set that is) and a nice finishing spec.
The saving can go towards some decent pedals or kit. (Bikes come with no pedals usually now but Wiggle throw in some cheap flat pedals which are crap.
If you went for it today you will probably have it by Friday.0 -
I will most likely commit to a purchase as soon as this weekend.
I have read BikeRadar's review of the F85 and it gives the impression that it isn't 'outstanding'. This part sticking out the most - 'If you aren’t looking to race — or to ride group rides like races — then the Felt might not be the bike for you.' - I'm neither planning to race or take part in 'group' rides at the moment. Does the Wiggle 'special' version have a different spec to the original reviewed?
I'm planning to go in-store to Decathlon and get a feel for the Triban on the weekend, and will then make the decision.
I'm finding it a very difficult decision to make at this point.0 -
MasterOfNone wrote:I will most likely commit to a purchase as soon as this weekend.
I have read BikeRadar's review of the F85 and it gives the impression that it isn't 'outstanding'. This part sticking out the most - 'If you aren’t looking to race — or to ride group rides like races — then the Felt might not be the bike for you.' - I'm neither planning to race or take part in 'group' rides at the moment. Does the Wiggle 'special' version have a different spec to the original reviewed?
I'm planning to go in-store to Decathlon and get a feel for the Triban on the weekend, and will then make the decision.
I'm finding it a very difficult decision to make at this point.
Not easy is it at any price range.
Basically the Felt is a better bike than the Triban. Especially at that price. Geometry wise its slightly more race - based sportif bike and faster as a result probably. But a road bike it still is so don't be scared of that comment.
The one in the review is different I think. Probably a little more future proof too.
Just to add to the confusion (I cant believe I forgot about this as I have one ! )......Theres also a Ribble Sportif going at the moment with a similar specto the Felt, however it might be more comfortable for you and you can change the cassete and chainset size if you want some more easy gearing.
It has a full Tiagra groupset, its lighter than all the others above, has better wheels and finishing kit. + its also a renound frame design.
I have the same frameset with lower Sora spec running as a wet weather hack / winter bike and all I can say is its very responsive and very comfortable to ride. Excellent bike for the price. So take a look at this...
http://www.ribblecycles.co.uk/sed/road- ... =conf_SERA
Again if it was me it would be the Felt or Ribble not the Triban. (Felt gets it on price, Ribble gets it on price and suitability) .... infact if I had £600 it would 100% be the Ribble ahahaha :roll: 0 -
Haha...Ahhh...Hmm...It seems you really like white bikes and me black!
I've heard Ribble give you pretty good bang for your buck.
I thought I'd enjoy looking for the right bike but it is really a journey of anxiety, doubt and potential regret!
In terms of look, the Triban is winning it for me. But I fully acknowledge that the spec is the most important thing. It's what's inside that counts, right?
In your opinion, would you say that the Felt is vastly more superior to the Triban 7?0 -
I would not worry about that comment either. To link the Felt with racing seems a bit of a joke to me.
It is just a road bike. There is too much emphasis unnecessarily placed on relaxed geometry bikes these days.
Relaxed geometry bikes seem to be a big money spinner, and something to make reviewers sound knowledgeable to MAMIL's lol.
If you like black bikes I would go with your gut and the Triban. There is not much in it and buying from a shop has its advantages ;-)
Its very important you like the look of a bike. It needs to fit/ride well of course but its a complete package IMO.
So glad the awful Ali forked Allez got binned lol.
Make sure they do not try to put you on one that is too big for you though ;-)0 -
MasterOfNone wrote:Haha...Ahhh...Hmm...It seems you really like white bikes and me black!
I've heard Ribble give you pretty good bang for your buck.
I thought I'd enjoy looking for the right bike but it is really a journey of anxiety, doubt and potential regret!
In terms of look, the Triban is winning it for me. But I fully acknowledge that the spec is the most important thing. It's what's inside that counts, right?
In your opinion, would you say that the Felt is vastly more superior to the Triban 7?
Oh yeah didnt notice that. My main bike is black white and green !
One thing of note is white bikes stand out more I suppose. Thats a little to add safety wise, especially if your commuting.
The Ribble is the best buy here however and looks real nice in the flesh. Its lighter and is probably more efficient to ride than the others. TBH its probably more Triban 7 vs Ribble now unless you wanted to save money. What you get for the £ - the Felt.
In terms of superiority between Triban7 and F85... Its more down to if you want a lighter, faster bike for less or not.
The Triban frame design is quite old - I remember carbon/aluminium combo frames a while ago when carbon was super expensive. Always doubts over the bonding, but it may be a tad less aggressive to ride compared to the Felt.
Felt make very very good bikes. The frame and kit you get for the price is very nice indeed.
BUT if you were paying £599 for the Triban ..the Ribble will be the better buy and im sure a lot would agree on here.
You have a lot to think about - ...
just to add to the heart side of things in a light hearted way..... Ribble is British and well respected. Seen as a more specialist brand compared to Btwin...who are French Halfords brand!!. 0 -
the Ribble also appears to have an alloy fork.
I'd probably go for the Felt if I had to choose.0 -
keef66 wrote:the Ribble also appears to have an alloy fork.
I'd probably go for the Felt if I had to choose.
Carbon fork on the Ribble. Well respected frame too. The Felt is closer in spec to the Ribble and cheaper too. Good Buys IMO.0 -
How about the Sab La Rocca on planet X or the Corratec Dolomiti with mostly all 105 groupset on chain reaction, both £599.
Review:
http://www.bikeradar.com/gear/category/bikes/road/product/review-corratec-dolomiti-105-09-34031/0 -
The Corratec certainly ticks all the box's.
The 105 shifters/mech and straight fork (unlike one in BR review photo) do it for me 0 -
Bloody hell, that Dolomiti looks lovely! So does the Sab but I prefer the look of the former.
Right so I'm around 180cm tall, Inside leg 32", so I'm seeing through a size guide that the 56-58"frame would suit me...? There is only 55" and 60" left in the Dolomiti - would be going 60" be too much?
With regards to the Ribble - The standard set-up is good, right? I'm not sure if it has my size though?
So, the choices are -
Felt F85
Triban 7
Corratec Dolomiti 105
Ribble Sportive 7005.
Jeez Louise, first world problems!
I really appreciate the replies and time taken out to help me. It's invaluable.
I have to say that the Corratec is the most attractive I've seen. Would those agree that it has an extremely good spec for the price? Also, giving my size - what should I opt for?0 -
The Corratec looks fab and great spec.
They seem to be pretty standard measurements (unlike Eddy Merckx) so I would say it has to be the 55cm.
I am 6'1" and would not order the 60cm.0 -
the Corratec is different on Chain Reaction. Has Tiegra chainset and no name finishing kit, brakes and wheels. ??0
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Carbonator wrote:The Corratec looks fab and great spec.
They seem to be pretty standard measurements (unlike Eddy Merckx) so I would say it has to be the 55cm and just hope its not too big.
Looking at the size guide it says the 55cm is suited too those that are between 5'6'' -5'8'' in height. I'm 5'11'', so surely too small for me unless I am missing something?0 -
rickeverett wrote:the Corratec is different on Chain Reaction. Has Tiegra chainset and no name finishing kit, brakes and wheels. ??
I would still go with the Ribble TBH.
Hey,
OK, but I'm not sure if it has my size..?0 -
MasterOfNone wrote:rickeverett wrote:the Corratec is different on Chain Reaction. Has Tiegra chainset and no name finishing kit, brakes and wheels. ??
I would still go with the Ribble TBH.
Hey,
OK, but I'm not sure if it has my size..?
Which bike? all are in your size seen so far. anything from 54-56-58 really - its slightly manufacturer dependant. The chain reaction chart seems on the larger side unless thats for that particular bike.
I have a 55cm and a 54cm bike for example and im 5,11 with 32 inside leg. Both bikes are a perfect fit for me as I don't like to be stretched out which a 58cm would do.0 -
MasterOfNone wrote:Carbonator wrote:The Corratec looks fab and great spec.
They seem to be pretty standard measurements (unlike Eddy Merckx) so I would say it has to be the 55cm and just hope its not too big.
Looking at the size guide it says the 55cm is suited too those that are between 5'6'' -5'8'' in height. I'm 5'11'', so surely too small for me unless I am missing something?
Sorry, did the cm to feet/inches conversion wrong and thought you were 5'9".
I thought the 55 may be a tad big, so at 5'11" feel it may be perfect.
I would still get the 55 over the 60 and I am 6'1". It depends on a lot of things and the size guide is a bit vague.
Nice thing about ribble is that you get full groupset, brakes, the lot will be Tiagra. You can also tweek stuff, but it can get expensive :shock:
I think I would get the Corratec and save ribble for your next bike when you know what you want and are happy to spend more money and time on the fiendish Configurator!
Its the colour you want, Its 105 and you will have it in a few days and can send it back if not happy (think you are stuck with a ribble).
I think that the 105 sort of trumps the brakes etc. and wheels are always worth upgrading (on any of these bikes) for next summer anyway.
The other thing is that spec on bike you get from chainreaction may be better than that listed.
The best £650 bike I found was a Felt on wiggle for a friend and when it came it was better looking than the one in the photo.0 -
Yeah, I'm certainly leaning towards the Corratec now. I am convinced that the Ribble's make for really good quality bikes but I think you're right, once I know my way around a road bike, I'll feel more confident choosing spec and also more knowledgeable about what suits me.
The discount on the Corratec is generous too, and as well as being aesthetically pleasing - I think my mind is close to being made up.0 -
MasterOfNone wrote:rickeverett wrote:the Corratec is different on Chain Reaction. Has Tiegra chainset and no name finishing kit, brakes and wheels. ??
I would still go with the Ribble TBH.
Hey,
OK, but I'm not sure if it has my size..?
Sorry, I didn't pick up on what you mentioned in the first part. Looking at the spec on Chain Reaction, do you think this is a concern? I have never heard of ZZYZX. Excuse my ignorance!
Frame: Pro Size System Technology, Alloy 7005
Fork: Dolomiti Carbon / alloy
Rear Derailleur: Shimano 105
Front Derailleur: Shimano 105
Shifting Lever: Shimano 105
Brake: ZZYZX R540
Crankset: Shimano Tiagra FC-4650 Compact Hollowtech - 34/50t
Cassette: Shimano CS4600 12/28t
Wheelset / Hubs: ZZYZX Race Attack 3.0
Tyre: Continental Ultra Sport
Saddle: Corratec Road
Stem: ZZYZX Alloy
Handlebar: ZZYZX Compact Road Bar, 6 Series.0 -
Basically the brakes, wheels and finishing kit (bars, stem, seat post) are ZZYZX branded.
As I see it the finishing kit is no big deal, the brakes will work fine and the wheels are probably no worse than the others at this price.
If you get into it you should get new wheels for any of the bikes that have been mentioned.
Upgrading the brake pads/blocks is another thing worth doing on them all.
You could spec better wheels on the ribble Configurator, but then you are talking about a bigger budget which opens up new bikes anyway.0
