Ruby Comp or Ruby Pro

[li10up]

I'm still trying to decide on a bike. I've read the replies in other post and have learned a lot from the folks on this site. I feel like I'm a lot more informed, but when it comes to components I'm still not sure.

My question now is should I go with the Ruby Comp or the Ruby Pro. I think the difference in price is about $1600. The Comp is all Shimano 105 while the Pro is DuraAce drive train, brake levers, and rear D with Ultegra brakes, and front D.

Knowing that I'm a recreational rider but want to ride faster and longer and climb better, and that I'm 30 pounds overweight, should I just stick with the Comp? I know that I'd be better off upgrading me than the bike. Will I, in a year or so, kick myself for not getting the Pro though? Would I notice the difference in components or would it not really be noticeable for a rider like me?

I'm just looking for some input...I know the ultimate decision is up to me.

[indysteel]

Based on my understanding of Shimano's groups, you'll likely experience/feel some difference, especially in shifting, between the 105 and DA/Ultegra components. I don't know if I'd say it's $1600 worth of difference.

Assuming you're a recreational rideer, I tend to think that the Comp will meet your performance needs. I'm sure some will disagaree, but I tend to think that for the average recreational rider, the desire/need to buy a bike with higher end components is largely emotional. That's certainly what drove me to swap out some of the Mirage components on my Bianchi for Veloce. Even though I know Veloce isn't top of the line for Campy, I just knew I wouldn't be happy with something I perceived as an entry level bike (although I don't consider Shimano 105 as entry level; it's certainly a lot better than Sora or Tiagra). I'd also note, however, that I only spent about $200 to swap those things out. If it had cost $1600, I would have balked. With that in mind, I'd ask yourself how important it generally is for you to have top of the line stuff. If it's not that big of a deal to you, I'd go with the Comp.

Instead of buying the Pro, you could talk to your LBS--either when you buy the bike or later--about upgrading a few of the components. I'd start with the rear derailleur from a performance standpoint. That's not a terribly expensive upgrade. Also, your original post didn't indicate how the wheelsets for each bike compare. That's another place where it makes sense to upgrade. Of course, if my experience with buying handbuilt wheels is any guide, you can get a really good set of custom wheels for less than $500 that will probably perform and ride better than the wheels that come standard on either the Comp or Pro.

If it were me (and take this for what it's worth), I'd buy the Comp and spend my extra $1600 on some nice handbuilt wheels and some cute jerseys.

Kate

[Aggie_Ama]

Why not get the Expert (middle group) Ruby? There is no reason a recreational rider should not have Dura-Ace. The only reason I didn't buy the Dura Ace or Ultegra version of my bike was money. All I want to do is ride 3,500 a year and some centuries, but if my budget had been bigger I wouldn't have 105 right now.

From what I hear you would notice a difference between 105 or Dura-Ace. That being said, most reviews I have found on 105 are quite favorable. I find my shifting to be very smooth, but I have never rode Dura-Ace. There is a BIG difference between my old Sora and 105. Get what you are comfortable spending and don't worry about whether or not it is "too much bike".

[logdiva32]

I am very happy with my 105 group. I had a Fuji newest the LBS talked me into, entry level bike with sora and I was very unhappy, I returned it and purchased a better bike. The shifting is smooth almost unoticeable to me. I don't race either just group rides rec, commute and such. So I think it was a good buy. If I had xtra $ to put into a bike I would still keep my 105 and upgrade on frame fit..

[bikerHen]

I second the vote for the Ruby Expert. Mine has full Ultegra. I didn't really like the 105 componets I had on my other bike. I felt a huge difference in the ride between the comp and the expert. Would have love to get the Pro, but I already was stretching the budget with the expert. The Expert was the perfect solution for me. bikerHen

[aicabsolut]

I would've bought a bike with nicer components if I had the money. I'm trying to race, but something like ease of shifting is a concern for all riders. Will the Comp or Expert perform well? Yes. Will the Pro feel even nicer? Yes. I have a lot to learn so a Roubaix Comp seemed like a good compromise between components and not going way over the top. But I already think about how nice S-Works must feel and how much better a lighter bike would climb. So maybe I'll save up more for bike #2 . Will you be itching to upgrade? Maybe. Cycling seems to do that to people. But I don't think you'll really dislike the Comp in a year. The Ruby is a good bike.

[TxRider]

I agree with the others who suggested the Expert ... I knew that I wanted the Ruby, but couldn't justify the extra cost for the Pro since I don't get to ride nearly as much as I'd like. So, the Expert seemed like a good compromise. I also rode the Comp before comitting to the Expert, but I don't really remember how different I thought they were at the time. It's definitely an upgrade from my entry-level Allez and with the type and frequency of riding I am able to do, I don't feel as though I'll "outgrow" it anytime in the near future. i've been extremely happy with it.

[li10up]

Saturday I went to the LBS and took the Ruby Comp triple out for a test ride. It is the same frame as the Ruby Pro. The shifting was so much smoother than on my Allez triple. The bike felt much lighter and climbing was easier. I was amazed that climbing out of the saddle was a LOT easier than on my current bike. I didn’t get fatigued as quickly. Unfortunately it was a triple so I’m not sure how the shifting between chain rings will feel on a compact double. The previous post is giving me some cause for concern. But I guess it is mute because……….
I bought the Ruby Pro!!!!!!!!! I am very excited. It should be here Thursday. I hope I didn’t make a mistake by buying a bike that I haven’t ridden or even seen. But from all the satisfied Ruby riders who helped me make my decision I don’t think I’ll be disappointed. Did I mention that I’m excited!?!?

[caligurl]

congratulations! i hope you like it!!!!

as for buying without seeing or test riding.... i did that... well... i had no choice... i put my deposit down before they were ever in the stores! lol! i did have the back out though if i didn't like the color or it didn't fit since there was no way to try one on! (keep in mind... my rave review are based on a full DA setup.... the whole drivetrain, including crank and wheels! lol!)

hope you have many, many happy miles!!!!

[Jo-n-NY]

I also wish you a huge CONGRATULATIONS also along with many enjoyable and safe riding miles.

Keep in mind, that the Pro compact double is FSA K-Force, carbon crankset. I think it is an upgrade from the average compact double. Shifting is so much easier than it was on my Dolce Comp which was a triple.

What a wonderful way to begin Spring 07

~ JoAnn

[li10up]

caligurl, Jo-n-NY: Thank you both. Your input through this whole thing was invaluable. Thank you both so much. Another question. How do I care for a carbon frame. Is there anything I need to do differently in maintaining this bike? I can't wait to get her!!!

[caligurl]

i just wipe mine down with the same stuff i use on my car (zaino z-6)

i had asked my bike shop about what to use when i first got ruby and they told me pledge! as for full on baths..... i'm not sure what hubby uses (i don't bathe the bikes ) but i have sprayed on that pink bikewash stuff and hosed it off at least once!

[Jo-n-NY]

caligurl, Jo-n-NY: Thank you both. Your input through this whole thing was invaluable. Thank you both so much. Another question. How do I care for a carbon frame. Is there anything I need to do differently in maintaining this bike? I can't wait to get her!!!

I didn't give this much thought and since I just got the bike last week, I have not cleaned it yet, although I went on 3 rides so I am going to run home and take a look and see if she should be cleaned. Anyway, I was just going to use my regular bike polish. Now you have me thinking and maybe I should ask my husband.

~ JoAnn

[tprevost]

Saturday I went to the LBS and took the Ruby Comp triple out for a test ride. It is the same frame as the Ruby Pro. The shifting was so much smoother than on my Allez triple. The bike felt much lighter and climbing was easier. I was amazed that climbing out of the saddle was a LOT easier than on my current bike. I didn’t get fatigued as quickly. Unfortunately it was a triple so I’m not sure how the shifting between chain rings will feel on a compact double. The previous post is giving me some cause for concern. But I guess it is mute because……….
I bought the Ruby Pro!!!!!!!!! I am very excited. It should be here Thursday. I hope I didn’t make a mistake by buying a bike that I haven’t ridden or even seen. But from all the satisfied Ruby riders who helped me make my decision I don’t think I’ll be disappointed. Did I mention that I’m excited!?!?

Congratulations!!!!!! WOW, you are gonna LOVE your new bike Caligurl has one and it is probably one of the most beautiful bikes I've seen!

Can't wait to see pics!

trac'

[li10up]

Yeah, I really wanted to pick her up yesterday. But I figured by the time I did it would be too late to get a good ride in. Plus, I wanted to see how I'd do on the club intermediate ride last night. Also, I felt like I need to ride more in order to be deserving of such a fine machine. I'm all a-quiver....

I'm happy to report I was able to stay with the front group last night too! All around, life is good.