Upgrading First Road Bike

kelliano

I've had the Boardman Sport Limited Edition (The entry level 16 speed) for best part of 18 months now and I'm going to demote this to my commuter bike.

Last week, and last summer, was taking part in 100km sportives (2000mts + climbing) so I know that there's plenty out there upto the £1k mark which should see me be able to take climbs a little easier.

One I'm currently looking at is the Raleigh Militis Comp, 44% off at Chain Reaction, and have seen it highlighted as a star buy on some websites:

http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/rale ... prod139001

However the review was 3/5 and it crabbed the ride:

http://www.bikeradar.com/road/gear/cate ... -15-49103/

Given now nearly half the price, should I take this with a pinch of salt, throw on 25mm wheels however it says it will suit heavier riders, and given I'm two stone heavier than the reviewer, guess that's a plus?

I've also been looking at Trek Emonda ALR 5 2015 which is £150 more, so some thoughts on how these compare would be appreciated too.

keef66

I'd say it's a decent buy at that price, if the 55cm frame is the right size for you.
If the pics show the 23mm tyres I'm not sure there'll be clearance for fatter ones, the rear looks very close to the seat tube

dinyull

kelliano wrote:

I've also been looking at Trek Emonda ALR 5 2015 which is £150 more, so some thoughts on how these compare would be appreciated too.

That's what I was just about to recommend. If your looking for Alu, the Emonda is just about the lightest out there. Also, Giant TCR which is £1050, but full carbon, lighter again than the Emonda and gets great reviews.

kelliano

Thanks for your comments.

Worried that the Militis Comp might be too racy for me, and more suited to Emonda if doing 100km+ rides throughout the year.