CAAD12 - stick or twist?

So, I will try to keep this brief (as if!). From another thread I started there was an issue with my Caad12. The frame was passed as okay under warranty inspection, although nobody can seem to give me a definitive reason why so many bearings/BB's have failed in a relatively short time.

As a backup, I purchased an allez as a winter/turbo bike and no issues so far.

I now have the Caad back and it has another BB installed! It does however needs a new left shifter and the derailleurs could also do with replacing. I have a spare Sram force 22 groupset but I am reluctant to install it in case the BB issue reoccurs.

I therefore have 3 options as I see it:

1) stick with the allez and just chuck the CAAD on the turbo trainer.
2) Use the Force groupset and rebuild the CAAD
3) Buy another cheaper groupset (105/Rival), do the CAAD up and keep the force for a better frame/project in future.

Realise I have to make the decision myself but interested in what others would do?

Comments

  • MattFalle
    MattFalle Posts: 11,644
    sell allez

    12 on turbo with cheapest groupset you can find/borrow/beg/steal - remember, only shifter/s and mech/s needed

    buy new frameset and build up with Force. One of those Merckxs from that online place we were all gawping at a few weeks ago will do nicely (Paul something or other) Or a new LeMond as they're gorgeous.
    .
    The camera down the willy isn't anything like as bad as it sounds.
  • Cheers MF.

    I think cheaper parts to do up the Caad and stick it on the turbo (also act as a handy spare, just in case) is the better option.

    Have to admit I didn't think about selling the Allez and using the cash to buy another frame, that is definitely an option. Paul Milne is the shop I think you are referencing. I did actually look at the Ridley's they had available a few weeks back but nothing was rim brake in my size that took my fancy.
  • andyrr
    andyrr Posts: 1,822
    MattFalle said:

    sell allez

    12 on turbo with cheapest groupset you can find/borrow/beg/steal - remember, only shifter/s and mech/s needed

    buy new frameset and build up with Force. One of those Merckxs from that online place we were all gawping at a few weeks ago will do nicely (Paul something or other) Or a new LeMond as they're gorgeous.

    What’s so #supergravylovelyspecial about those more than likely far-eastern made frames that makes all of you gasp at them?
  • redvision
    redvision Posts: 2,958
    Send the frame to hambini. He will find out what is causing the bb issues.

    If you plan on riding through the winter, stick with the allez because it's a perfect frame for winter training ie has mudguard mounts (not sure if the caad does)
  • Cheers all. Have bought the necessary replacement parts for the caad. Will fix it up and keep as a turbo bike and also for the odd trip abroad and sportive as well.

    Going to keep the allez for the time being. It is a good winter bike and having got drenched yet again yesterday, it is clear that torrential downpours are now commonplace. Having a cheaper winter bike that is a bit more weatherproof makes sense.

    Will save the Force groupset for my next summer bike as it is too nice to trash on a winter frame.
  • MattFalle
    MattFalle Posts: 11,644
    Top choices all round!

    Some nice bits in R&A Cycles closeout if you're looking...... team with the Force groupset and its max bang for buck....
    .
    The camera down the willy isn't anything like as bad as it sounds.