Specialized Dolce?

Hi all: I am a noob, currently riding an Electra Townie 21d for rides of 16-20 miles. I realize that for longer rides I am going to need something faster and designed for longer rides. I am also going to do a mini sprint tri and a sprint du next year and so would like a bike that will grow with me.

I am a 5'8.5", 225 (and losing!) athena, long legged and short waisted, and the LBS is recommending I test ride a Specialized Dolce. Anyone got any insights? Other recommendations? I would love to hear your thoughts.

Thanks in advance.

I don't know if you are getting a really good deal on the Dolce but if you wanted to upgrade to 105 components for around the same price or less you might check out this bike at Performance.

http://www.performancebike.com/bikes...0_20000_400306

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I have a Dolce Sport Compact Double that I really like. There are lots of possibilities out there for you including TREK, Giant, Jamis, etc. Any of which will serve you well. Find a bike you love and fits well. With respect to the Dolce's components, you can get almost any level you want by going to the next level up (Elite, Comp, etc). Visit all the local LBS and see what is available and which shop suits you the best. Enjoy the buying experience.

P2

I am a huge Specialized fan, my husband and I both have roubaix's. If I were you, I would test ride everything! Take a look at everything you can and make your decision based on fit and comfort. If you have a set budget, try things out of your range. Being informed will help and when you get on that bike and it feels great, you"ll know it's "the one".

I have a 2009 Dolce Elite and love it. After riding every road bike I could find in my size, this is the one that consistently put a smile on my face. (The component level may not be the most impressive for the money, but this was not a deal-breaker for me.)

I agree, however, that the best purchasing strategy is to test ride as many bikes as you can find. Eventually one will stand out above the others and ask to follow you home. :)

It's very helpful to find out what other cyclists have liked, but the final decision is yours. If it is not comfortable-or if the handling doesn't suit your riding style, it will end up abandoned in a corner. Good luck in your search!

I just got a 2011 Dolce Elite compact...and I love it. I tried several different bikes (I over research and analyze every big purchase)...and the Dolce was the only bike that made me immediately think "wow, this is a nice bike" when I got on it. and then I waited for the 2011 to come out, so I could get the SRAM Apex groupset. BUT - you may feel that way about a different bike!! I think the best advice is really to try bikes until you're sick of trying bikes...and then try some more...and decide which felt best. Likely, the one that you have the best first impression "wow - this feels great!" will be the one you'll be most satisfied with.