Pick a Bike, Any Bike....... For Me.
16
Member
184 days
gshuldes posted 11 weeks ago.
All four brands are solid and will stand behind their product. I can't think of any reasons to rank any of these based on the brand. You should test ride all of them ... for most people a test ride will expose which machine feels best to you. Small differences in the geometry of the bike can make a big difference in how the bike will feel to each individual. After considering the feel, you should consider your comfort level with the LBS you would be dealing with. Ask around about the shop's reputation, consider how convenient the shop will be when it comes time for service, etc.
10
Member
814 days
mccalip posted 11 weeks ago.
I agree with gshuldes and would add "looks". You will be staring and riding the bike for years so you want it to look good - to you. I also agree to buy a road bike if it's your first. A vast majority of triathletes have road and tri bikes. I use my old roadie for winter training and the indoor trainer. I keep an indoor trainer tire on my road bike for those weather days and when I need a quickie. My best friend just bought a Trek 4.2 or 4.5 and like you, was overwhelmed at first. Go with a good lbs that will back their products and just jump in; trail and error. They are all good bikes and will ride smooth at first; kinda like a new car.
I'm a beginner triathlete and will be competing in September in an Olympic distance Tri. I've been training since January and thus far all bike training has been done on a regular indoor resistance training exercise bike. I've been back and forth on road bike or tri bike and I believe I've decided a road bike will be best for me at this point. Now I must decide which one. Please let me know if you or someone you know has any info or experience on these bikes/brands, or if you have any other suggestions that are close to these. I honestly cant make up my mind.
Bianchi, Via Nirone 105 Build
http://www.bianchiusa.com/08_c2c_nirone_105.html
Specialized, Allez Elite
http://www.specialized.com/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?sid=08Allez
Trek, 2 Series 2.3
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/2008/road/2_series/23/
Felt, F75
http://www.feltracing.com/08/product.asp?catid=1504,1515&pid=8665
Thanks for your help.