Quote Originally Posted by Dannielle View Post
one thing to consider-

if you did do races, what would your focus be? Meaning, would you be more concerned with your time against the time of the other competitors...or would you be concerned with finishing and your own personal best times?

If it's the latter, having the fastest bike on the block won't matter.
Dannielle...That question answers it all without even caring what kind of bike it is. Thank you! For me...it's definitely the latter of the two...for now. Of course I want to get the best bike for my money, but all-in-all, even though I'm very competitive, I can start with the little steps & my own personal "best times". Awesome advice!

Quote Originally Posted by nscrbug View Post
Why not just go and test ride both types and see which one suits you better? I started out with a "racing" bike (Cervelo Soloist Carbon), because at the time when I bought it, I was into triathlons and thought it would be the best option for me. After a year and only doing 2 triathlons, I decided that the racing position was NOT for me. I have a bad back and a more upright, relaxed riding position just suited me better. Plus, my focus changed from triathlon to long distance riding...so a more comfortable riding position benefited me more. I now ride a Cannondale Synapse Carbon Fem 3, and comfort-wise, it is much better for me than the more aggressive and aero Cervelo was.

You really should test 'em both out, to see which type of bike you feel more comfortable on.

Linda
Linda...yet more GREAT advice!!! That Synapse is getting a lot of love around here it seems. I'm thinking that I'd be much the same as you with the not-so-good back and needing a more comfortable riding position. Lifting heavy for too many years will do that to a girl (me). Thanks SO much for the advice!!!!!!