the links don't show me any bikes. generally what's the diff between the bikes?

What have you been quoted for those 2 bikes? The MSRP seems quite high for the components. If you're set on one of the 2, I'd say go Compact for numerous reasons. If you have a Felt dealer nearby, though, you really should check out the F-85, which has upgraded shifters and derailleurs and a similar compact crank at a lower price: http://www.feltracing.com/08/product.asp?catid=1504,1515&pid=8667
From previous experience, the Felt MSRP does not have to be what you pay.

PJT

P.S. I am not affiliated with Felt. I just think they give more bang for the buck on their bikes at that price level than nearly anyone.

i have a similar question, i ride a trek 1.2 right now and have reached a fork (excuse the pun) in the road: upgrade or rebuy. am i better off just buying a new bike (looking into the base level trek equinox, fuji aloha, and felt s32) or upgrading my current ride? i was planning on putting a nice pair of aerobars on a nice saddle...opinions?

FWIW, I have a Felt S32 and love it! If you can find an 2007 model you will get more bang for your buck.

As has been said, $1200 for Tiagra/Sora components is way high. You can get 105 at least for that price, probably Ulegra/105 blend. You'd be upgrading Tiagra/Sora components in 5,000 miles, tops. If you are in the market for an aluminum frame + 105/Ultegra blend, you can find that for 1200.

Thanks for the feedback. I'm really liking the looks of that Felt F85 and to make things even better. I was just about to join the Baton Rouge Tri Club and found out the shop that carries Felt's here in town offers a 15% discount for BR Tri Club members.

I also agree that $1200 is way to high for what you are getting on that bike. I got a 105/ultegra blend for my wife for a little under $900 bucks last year. It was a Fuji and I think it was a much better bike and a much better deal than the two specialized bikes you are looking at.

I was also able to build a specialized allez frame up from scratch a few years ago with ultegra and Dura ace components for under $1200. I know this was probably not the answer that you were looking for, but there are better deals out there.

Also, if they won't sell you a bike cheaper than MSRP, you can usually get a shop to through in a few things for free or at a discount, like your helmet and pedals. Good luck with your search.

Ok ill throw in for this one. I have the allez double. I liked it a lot when i started riding it as it was a huge upgrade from my 79 schwinn. However, over the last year or so ive been slowing swapping everything over to dura ace. Save yourself a lot of time and just get a bike with the good stuff to begin with.

-Alan