Trek vs. Specialized

[Norse]

+1 on the Trek 1.2. DP recently got one, after years of not riding, and absolutely fell in love with it - started bike commuting to work and, after only a few months, signed up for and successfully completed the local MS-150 ride. You get a lot of bang for the buck component-wise and you can get it with a triple if that's your preference.

When I was looking several years ago, it came down to the Specialized Roubaix vs. Trek 5.2 (now called the Madonne 5200). I really liked both but went with the Trek because: again, better quality components for the price and the LBS that sells Treks is closer to our house. There is a lot to be said for buying a bike from a LBS that you trust and that is near to where you live.

[Norse]

Oops, that's a 2.1 that DP got, not the 1.2.

[colorisnt]

Definitely look into who will be servicing your bike in the future. I love the place I bought my bike. It was a longer trip than the closest Trek and specialized dealer, but they have tons of women's specific stuff and a great service department. Whenever I go in there, they remember me, which is a huge deal. The same kid that sold me the bike is there. The service manager is great and will help me with any fit issues - no charge! That was a huge sell for me.

There is another shop in that area that has Bianchi's (also really nice bikes), but I wouldn't buy from there just because they are no help with WSD stuff and I feel like the never want to help me when I go there. Nothing wrong with the bike, but if I need someone to help with fit, etc, I want to have them do it no questions asked!

[TxDoc]

My suggestion is to take an extra drive and go visit both Topanga Creek (they used to own Hollywood Pro until last year or so), and Cynergy. They carry nice bikes and offer good service. When you go to Cinergy you can also visit Helen's Cycles, pretty nice place too.
Test ride, test ride, test ride...

[kalimom]

Thank you everyone for your imput! I got a 2010 Dolce last night. Drove up to the LBS and had it fitted for me this morning. Got on it and fell in love. So decision made! Thank you so much!!

Blue_Fedora, where do you ride in SCV? I am headed there this weekend, and i grew up there. Always looking for some good rides!