My eyes are bigger than my wallet!

[ladyfish]

The more I look at bikes, the more I want to spend. I started out thinking I might be OK with a hybrid. Everyone quickly convinced me (along with all my research) that I would not be happy with one.

So on to the search for a road bike. I started out at the bottom (of course, since they are less expensive). But the more I research and the more I look, I think that some carbon components will really be a good choice (up goes the price!!!)

I must say I'm enjoying the search. The lbs is currently building me a bike because they didn't have any on the floor that were the right size after they did all the fitting measurements. So I'm going back in a few minutes to try a Trek Pilot 2.1. I can't wait to give it a try.

I still need to get to another lbs to try out the Specialized bikes. They look great too. Decisions, decisions. It will all come down to which one fits better and feels best. I better not try out any of the more expensive ones, though because then I will talk myself up in price!!!

Seriously, though I think I will be happier with some carbon components. Now if I could just get that money tree in the back yard to start sprouting bills!!!

Thanks for all the advice, and I'll let you know what I finally decide!

Cathy

[CorsairMac]

have fun with the "tryouts". And let me know if your money tree ever starts producing - I"ll want a shoot for My backyard! LOL

[yellow]

Hey, you can always upgrade over time and as budget allows if you end up going with something a little less expensive. That's what I've done. I don't think I'd give up my frame for anything, but little else is "original"!

[bcipam]

Uncertain what price range you are looking but you can get a great entry level road bike for around $1000 and some with full Ultegra for around $1200 - 1500. You mentioned carbon components - are you speaking of frame material or components such as cranks and handlebars. I really wouldn't waste my money on the cranks and handlebars, frame material OK. I personally like steel bikes but I understand to many, that's so old school. Steel is really a great material. It wears well, it absorbs alot of shock but still gives the rider alot of road feel. I much prefer steel over carbon. If you want to spend money, like at Ti, which is just like steel but lighter. Don't forget all the "add ons" when considering a bike such as pedals, saddle etc. All that stuff ups the price.

[ladyfish]

I'm looking at the carbon fork and seat post. That's what the Trek Pilot 2.1 and I believe the Specialized Dolce Elite have in them. I think I'm at the top of my price range with them!

The Pilot felt sweet! I only got to try it on the trainer because it's raining cats and dogs today. But it sure felt nice. Good size fit as far as I could tell. Tomorrow we're supposed to have sunny, warm weather so I'll take it out for a test ride tomorrow.

I also plan to go to the shop with Specialized. They have Trek and several other brands (larger shop) so I can do some comparison shopping. If I go with the Trek, I'll buy at the shop close to home--they have been great so far, and have a good tune-up policy on new bikes.

As for money, I've been buying in stages--pants and shorts before Christmas, helmet and shoes after Christmas. So by the time I get to the bike, it won't "feel" so painful as it would buying all at once!!!

I'll keep you posted!!!

Cathy

[Geonz]

The carbon frame blues...


"I'm holdin' out for a carbon fiber frame
Nothin' gets me strokin' like a carbon fiber frame can
My legs can't wait to straddle
That carbon fiber saddle
And ride that baby all day long!"

I've put a lot of miles on aluminum toys
They're light and they're fast like a bony little boy
All that bumpin' and a grindin'
Is to hard on my behind and
so I'm looking for a Carbon Fiber Frame....

<chorus>

I've gotten close and comfy with a frame of steel
It's strong, and it's supple, and I llluuuvv the way it feels
But it takes so long to get it up .... to speed
A carbon fiber frame is what I need.

<Chorus>
<finale, while stroking my finger down the length of the fork...>
"But if I can't have teh whole frame, I'd settle for a good fork!"


But.... I think I'll stick with my Nutra... we'll see how it is with the Free Radical on it :-)

[mary9761]

I test rode a Pilot 5.2 earlier this fall, talk about SWEET!!!! Let me know if that money tree sprouts too, because I'll want a start as well..

[Trekhawk]

The carbon frame blues...


"I'm holdin' out for a carbon fiber frame
Nothin' gets me strokin' like a carbon fiber frame can
My legs can't wait to straddle
That carbon fiber saddle
And ride that baby all day long!"

I've put a lot of miles on aluminum toys
They're light and they're fast like a bony little boy
All that bumpin' and a grindin'
Is to hard on my behind and
so I'm looking for a Carbon Fiber Frame....

<chorus>

I've gotten close and comfy with a frame of steel
It's strong, and it's supple, and I llluuuvv the way it feels
But it takes so long to get it up .... to speed
A carbon fiber frame is what I need.

<Chorus>
<finale, while stroking my finger down the length of the fork...>
"But if I can't have teh whole frame, I'd settle for a good fork!"


But.... I think I'll stick with my Nutra... we'll see how it is with the Free Radical on it :-)

Ooohh a poet/songwriter in our midst. LOVE IT. Read it to my carbon bike and it gave you the thumbs up.

[KSH]

I also plan to go to the shop with Specialized.

My boyfriend started with a Trek 1200 (road bike)... then he demolished it in a wreck after owning it a month.

He went back to possibly get a less expensive Trek... but rode the Specialized and was SOLD! He says the ride is so much smoother.

[ladyfish]

Just to make my choices even more difficult, the sales guy threw in an offer on a Specialized Dolce Comp ('05) because they want to sell it. I'll ride it tomorrow along with the '06 Dolce Elite. They are Evvviiil!!!

Got to ride the Trek Pilot 2.1 on the road today and really loved the way it rides. I rode the Dolce and didn't like it as well, but it isn't as much bike as the Pilot.

So, I guess I get to go ride some more tomorrow and see what I like. I hope the weather holds out so I can get the bike and ride it!!!!

Cathy

[SilverComet1945]

[QUOTE=ladyfish]:
I still need to get to another lbs to try out the Specialized bikes. They look great too. Decisions, decisions. It will all come down to which one fits better and feels best.


Ladyfish: Have you had a chance to look at the New Raleigh Candent? This is the bike I think I will end up with. Price isn't too bad - starts at $600. Anyway the kewl part is the top tube is shorter and the fork is more angled. RESULT: you sit more upright. And this is a ROADY! Check it out. Liz

[lynnepin]

I have the Pilot 2.1 and I LOVE LOVE LOVE it! I am a beginner and this is my first road bike. The ride is so smooth. It has the 'granny gear' which makes climbing hills a lot easier. You sit up a bit more on this bike than on a traditional road bike, and that seems to be good too!