Wilier? Any one from the UK have an opinion for me?

Alright, before I go and make a couple hour drive to test drive one(since they aren't very common in the US) I thought I would search out some opinions on here!
I am looking at the Wilier Laverado Crono for my entry level TT bike(looking to compete seriously in TTs next year- want to go to states), and it looks like a good bike for the money.

Any opinions would be great! And also, for the other TTers out there, what are your opinions on a good entry level bike( or something a little higher up that I could look for used on ebay- Looking to spend around 1500 for a full bike(not including race wheels), because I then want to get a set of wheels-rear disk and deep dish front wheel- which is going to cost me about the same as the bike....)

I just read a nice blurb about them in Outside magazine. Maybe a month or two ago. Wilier is an Italian frame company that's been around for a long time.

I notice my LBS has Felts on sale now; if you wait another month or two you'll start seeing end of the year deals. You might be able to pick up a Felt S22 for around $1500 or a Cervelo P2SL. Even on sale, you're looking at aluminum from most manufacturers for your budget.

I just went to the Wilier website and one of the big negatives I see about that bike is that it only comes in S-M-L. I don't know how tall you are, but I'm 5'4" and doubt the small is small enough. If you're under about 5' 5-6" you should be on 650 wheels, which is what the Cervelo and Felt have in the smaller sizes.

If you're a bit taller the Wilier may work for you.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by ehirsch83

Alright, before I go and make a couple hour drive to test drive one(since they aren't very common in the US) I thought I would search out some opinions on here!
I am looking at the Wilier Laverado Crono for my entry level TT bike(looking to compete seriously in TTs next year- want to go to states), and it looks like a good bike for the money.

Any opinions would be great! And also, for the other TTers out there, what are your opinions on a good entry level bike( or something a little higher up that I could look for used on ebay- Looking to spend around 1500 for a full bike(not including race wheels), because I then want to get a set of wheels-rear disk and deep dish front wheel- which is going to cost me about the same as the bike....)

---

Test ride one! I have been riding an 06 Thor (long term loner) and have fallen madly in love with it. I had the opportunity to buy an 08 Izoard at an amazing price and jumped on the opportunity.
The person I have been dealing with has had quite a few years experience with them and hasn't had a problem with the fit issues as far as S/M/L. He swears by them and is nice enough to have a loaner fleet to try out.

I had a 52' Trek 2100 and it was too small - felt like I wanted to stretch out all the time. Got on a M - Thor and it fits like a glove. I am 5'5", 160lb, athletic build but average on sizes. They don't make the Thor anymore but its geometry is similar to the Izoard, compact and racy. Rides like a Ferrari.

My bike got in last week and it is sexy...almost not worthy of me. Won't get fit until next week...can I wait that long!?!

A friend has the 08 Cento and it looks like a piece of art. He is in love. Here is our club website with some reviews. www.ikoncycles.com
Go to Community/Bike reviews.
Check them out but
Go try it I don't think you will be dissapointed.

nic840, we want pics of your new bike!!!

Will do...probably not until next week. I am unfortunately slammed this week and as it happens the guy I am getting it from is too. Works out okay. I will get some pictures on hopefully by next week. You can't tell in the website picture but the toptube and downtube are shaped, very interesting shape.
It has an uncut stem and seatpost so as far as fit issues it give you more to work with.
Previous writer was mentioning the S/M/L issues, with uncut stuff it makes it so much easier to get a good fit. Most other companies have their bikes already cut and the adjustments that can be made are minimal. Something to think about when looking around.