Ruby comp question

[purplegolden]

Thanks for the replies. My next question is - do you think Aus$2600 for a 2006 model with ultegra (I wanted it upgraded) is a good price? It has been used as a demo model, though it does not look like it was badly used. I also get a new bike warranty with it - whatever that is!

[purplegolden]

Sorry, that would end up being $2300 US.

[michelem]

How much are you paying them to swap out the 105 for Ultegra? Here in the States a brand new Ruby Expert is going for about $2600 (before tax) and can be found for less when lbs's have sales (I've seen sales of 10% - 12% around here, which brings a brand new Expert down to your used Comp price) - same carbon frame as the Comp with Ultegra brakes and derailleurs. The Comp has the Mavic Open Sport wheelset, whereas the Expert has the Shimano R6600 Ultegra wheelset - I know nothing about this, but I would think the Expert would have a better wheelset. Also, the Comp has the FSA Goassamer Mega Exo crank, whereas the Expert has the FSA SLK Mega Exo crank. Again, I know nothing about these either.

Anyway, all that to say, for just $300 more you are getting a brand new bike and don't need to pay for components to be upgraded. Also, I would assume you are getting a better wheelset and crank. Not sure if that is worth $300 to you, but something to consider.

Also, you might want to check with Specialized to find out about the warranty (see if there is any difference between the warranty you will get on the test-ride bike as compared to a new one). I think most warranties apply only to the original owner, but I don't know how that works when you are the first buyer (original owner), but the bike has been ridden as a test-ride bike before . . .

Anyway, good luck to you! I've test-ridden this bike three times at three different lbs's and on three different sizes - sheesh! (I won't go into how many other bikes I've test-ridden as well). It's a very nice ride, I just need to find the right size before I make a decision. From my experience, this should be everyone's TOP priority - the right size bike for YOU.

[purplegolden]

Hi michelem

the cost of a Ruby Expert is about $4,400 Aus. I think we have much less choice than the US, given that we also have a smaller population. A brand new Ruby Comp is $3,255 Aus. So the bike I am looking at is over a $1,000 cheaper than the current model, with Ultegra.

Checked the warranty and I get a new bike warranty with it as well. I've just asked them to give me a new saddle, tyres and grips. So we'll see! Hopefully doing a longer test ride tomorrow!

[Eden]

I don't know about that limited choice part - my 06' Ruby Pro had to be shipped to the states from a bike shop in Australia..... (I'm small and I needed a 44cm - they only produced 9 bikes with that spec last year...... )If any of the down under ladies know the Avanti Bicycle Company in Victoria blow them kisses for me someday cause they took good care of my baby for me - can you tell I love my bike

[purplegolden]

Eden

that suprises me! I think that is where my bike (if I get it) has come from too. I'm on the other side of the continent - but good to know that they take care with their bikes.