On a MUCH brighter note

[eclectic]

I test rode a new ride last week a Ruby expert triple

Our LBS got a GREAT deal on some closeout 2007 Specialized Ruby experts and comps. Right now there is a Ruby Expert triple sitting at the shop w/ my name on it. He has it listed at $2900 but I can get it for $2200.

I knew I was ready for something but I didn't know what. I wanted to try off road riding but never got around to it this summer, I tried a tribike after my last tri and decided I didn't need to invest that kind of cash at this time into one (had I decided to do a 1/2 IM or IM it would be a different story)

I thought long and hard and the answer is always the same I LOVE road riding and touring and I want to be faster. For tris I would put on aerobars
and call it good.

I am thinking this is the year to do it. I looked at the Ruby experts for next year and they have downgraded the wheel sets and upped the price.

the only thing holding me back right now is of course the cash outlay and I want to try the one size smaller to see how it feels.

When I test rode the expert it felt like a toy underneath me it was so light
With the zertz in the front,back and seat it made for a smoother rider than I imagined.

So send along a lot of good karma and thoughts that the Ruby will find a new home in my stable

I currently am riding a specialized Sequoia which w/ a little adjusting would fit DBF. In my humble opinion heneeds a heavier bike because he is currently riding a hybrid and I need a road bike to keep up w/ him! If he was on something light and fast I would always be in the dust

[Starfish]

I currently am riding a specialized Sequoia

What fun! (Side note...it seems like they have done this before, too...downgraded parts, upgraded price...what gives?)

I currently ride a Sequoia, and I am dreaming of a new bike, although it will not happen until at least next year, maybe 2 seasons from now.

But, I will be very curious to hear any comparisons you could make about the differences you notice between your Sequoia and the Ruby. And, what Sequoia do you have?

[Tri Girl]

Oooooooooo- sending good vibes your way that you'll have a new member of the bike family very soon (crossing fingers and toes).
Those Rubys are one pretty bike- how could you NOT fall in love with it????

[eclectic]

I am riding a standard everyday Sequoia. I really like the stability of it. When I switched over to a road bike I tried the Dolce but it just felt too twitchy under me.
the Ruby felt stable enough but probably because I am used to that style of riding now.

If I am so blessed as to get it I will let you know the differences

I went online and looked at the Terry's - they look enticing too and pricewise very compareable. However, I REALLY like Zertz's. I do a lot of supported touring and am on some pretty rough roads at times. I don't know how the terry's would be but I know their owners swear by them!

[spokewench]

Eclectic: A new bike would be great! I'm just trying to get out and ride more often and keep up my tennis playing! It keeps me busy and healthy!

[eclectic]

Well I did it! I put a deposit down on the Ruby Expert! While we are gone to Mayo clinic this week the LBS is switching things out and getting it ready to go for me so it will be ready when I get home. I'll put down the rest of the cash and my new baby will be ready to come home.

Now lots of prayers and good energy for DBF to get better so he can ride my Sequoia next summer

[KSH]

Well I did it! I put a deposit down on the Ruby Expert! While we are gone to Mayo clinic this week the LBS is switching things out and getting it ready to go for me so it will be ready when I get home. I'll put down the rest of the cash and my new baby will be ready to come home.

Now lots of prayers and good energy for DBF to get better so he can ride my Sequoia next summer

Awesome! Sounds like you made a good decision.

I hope you two have good results at the Mayo clinic.