Why a new bike? Couple of reasons. I'm hoping a new bike (custom if necessary) will address some pain/comfort issues that have cropped up recently related to a neck injury and are not necessarily the result of my current bikes' fit. I wonder if I have "outgrown" my current bike due to the aging and creaking of my body. It's a common thing, I'm discovering, with the stock Seven owners I've talked to: They go custom...eventually. I've held out for 7 years (how's that for irony?). Now maybe it's my turn?
Plus - I admit it - it's a bit of an arms race with DH. If he can get it, why can't I?? Yeah, he's faster and stronger. It's not like he's BETTER than me. Right?
Oh, Shellyj. If there's one thing I love to do....it's spend other peoples' money! Spending my own, however, requires a lot more thought!
I've read that this Trek goes in the $3,200 range (about what the ID8 frame costs). I don't know if it makes my heart go pitter-patter, but it makes the mouth say "ooooooo" and it makes my financial advisor not have heart palpatations. I know it's so far the best carbon I've ridden. It is much more compliant that the others and doesn't beat me up. I came away from the ride (granted - only about, what? 14 miles total) not feeling spent. I love speed....but I love comfort, too.