GT Grade 105 Carbon or Specialized diverge carbon comp

Goldenstar
Goldenstar Posts: 7
edited May 2016 in Road buying advice
Hello

I am considering getting one of the above bikes and was looking for some recommendations or thoughts on how these compare.

I will be riding on Bridle ways and cyclepaths as well as a bit of road riding so looking for a good all rounder that is not too compromised on the road.

I have a MTB already for rougher stuff

I have a couple of test rides set up as well,

Links

https://www.evanscycles.com/specialized ... e-EV244932

https://www.evanscycles.com/gt-grade-ca ... e-EV240489

Comments

  • ryanshattered
    ryanshattered Posts: 177
    Pretty similar bikes
    A few observations:
    - The GT has the really ugly 105 hydraulic shifters where the specialized has the nicer 685 model, however, you could change these and sell the 105s for less than the £500 difference
    - The GT has potentially better wheelset as the Stans Grail is a well regarded tubeless disc rim, however the Specialized set are available aftermarket and look quite decent, light too. Both are tubeless ready if that interests you
    - The GT can take full mudguards while the diverge can only take specialized's own plug and play
    - Slightly odd that they come with semi-compact chainsets given the intended use - would have thought a compact would be a better choice.
    - The Specialized frame may be a bit more advanced? Thru axle at the rear and it has all the fancy comfort enhancing dampers - no idea how much difference these make

    On paper I'd be leaning toward the GT as I prefer the looks and it appears to be better value, even with changing the shifters.
    Test rides should help you choose
  • imposter2.0
    imposter2.0 Posts: 12,028
    If you're in Evans, then look at the Jamis Renegade too..

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