HELP bike decision :)

[JmcG]

rn2binca,
I currently ride a dolce elite (2004) and have loved it. I'm waiting on my pre-ordered Specialized Ruby to come in. I decided that it was time to upgrade. I've put about 4000 miles on the bike and have had it since last May. It's been a great bike. When I first bought it, I had some problems with the chain always falling off - I think since it was a triple crank, with a tiagra front derailleur, that was giving me problems. So my LBS pulled off the triple crank, and installed a double crank for me, and it solved my problems with that issue.

As for the wheels I just recently bought a new front wheel (I crashed into a railing on a bridge when I was crossing the Potomac - I was looking out over the water and not paying attention to where I was going - luckily I didn't fall or hurt myself - I recovered quickly - but it did put a dent in my front wheel that became annoying when using the front brakes). The rear wheel is still original. The specialized all condition pro tires lasted me for about 3000 miles when I decided it was time to get new ones (not that they were too bad but I also wanted the light blue michelin pro race tires) and I use the old ones for the trainer.

So all in all - it's been a wonderful bike - it fits me so well and that's a reason why I'm sticking with specialized for my next bike. Oh, for the wheels being 700 cc - I really like that too about the specialized women's bikes - it makes it a lot easier to find tubes and tires - and to find them on sale. My tri bike has 650 wheels and it's a hassle! And too, if you're riding with guys (like me) - they all have 700 cc wheels on their bikes, so if you get a flat and for some reason don't have an extra tube, you know somebody you're with will have the same size tube that you need.

Good luck in your decision - I haven't decided if I'm going to sell my Dolce or keep her for a winter riding bike. She's a 44cm, so unfortunately not your size......
Let us know what you decide on!
-j

[caligurl]

along with sitting on the bike for fit... look at the actual measurements.. make sure that top tube is the same for the sequois and dolce...

i, too ride a dolce (2004 elite... so i have ultegra as the majority of my components.. i don't know why they stopped making then... dolce's with ultegra.. but i digress)

i would recommend getting... in addition to the bike that fits best.. the one that you LOVE... if you love it you will ride it more! if you are "settling" with the sequoia.. then don't get it... cuz even if you are happy with the bike.. you won't be truly "happy"....

[rn2binca]

Great Advice about buying a bike I LOVE. I have so much stress going on right now, I'm a 3rd semester nursing student, three school age kids all in soccer and a husband that works graveyards. Whew I need something that is just for me.

I am considering "settling" with the dolce sport. A little step down from the elite and I can upgrade a few things later, plus I can buy it used saving a bunch of money.

I just want to RIDE away into the sunset a few days a week. I need freedom from my responsibilities (in a way I wont get in trouble with <gg>).

Thanks for all the help. I will be on the boards much more as soon as I get peddling.

Tracy

[traveller_62]

sounds like a plan, rn2binca. if the frame fits you are all set and can upgrade everything else if you need to over time. i think the wheelset is fine if you are riding for stress relief and fitness. will your bike shop give you a warranty even though it is a used bike?

have a great time riding!

traveller

[rn2binca]

sounds like a plan, rn2binca. if the frame fits you are all set and can upgrade everything else if you need to over time. i think the wheelset is fine if you are riding for stress relief and fitness. will your bike shop give you a warranty even though it is a used bike?

have a great time riding!

traveller

Hi Treveller,
Unfortunately I won't get a warranty but I did get some extras in with the bike, a computer, a few tubes, the small bike pack for under the seat. Plus I am comfortable with the seller. I saved about 200 not to mention the additional goodies. I was able to get a helmet, shorts and gloves and still less than a new bike.

I can't wait to get out there. My only thing now is to set up a relationship with a lbs. We have a performance very close by but I havent been thrilled with the staff. The shop I did like is completely out of the way.

Tracy.... happy and safe riding everyone!