Thinking about a road bike

[jelee1311]

I had a hybrid and I got a road bike from Santa , it was love at first ride. Going from 35lbs to 16 was amazing.Try out many before making your decision. Spend the money, if it makes you happy it is worth it.

[warneral]

I bought a used trek 1000 wsd for 450 this summer. I don't regret it b/c I fell numerous times getting settled in with the clipless pedals. So the bike ended up with some bumps and bruises. I'm already wishing I had a nicer (slightly bigger) bike.

I test rode the Madone 4.5 and the Specialized Ruby Elite Apex last night. I loved them both and couldn't pick between the two so I decided to wait a while and work on fitting my current bike to me.

I wouldn't hesitate getting the Madone 4.5. The 2010 model was a good price but the saddle was much more uncomfortable than the 2011 saddle. It was a sexy bike for sure!!!

Alison

[Catrin]

...

I wouldn't hesitate getting the Madone 4.5. The 2010 model was a good price but the saddle was much more uncomfortable than the 2011 saddle. It was a sexy bike for sure!!!

Alison

Saddles can be replaced easily - that might be worth considering if you can get the 2010 model for a good savings over the 2011. Just saying....

[warneral]

That's what the guy in the shop said. My problem is I've ridden both the Madone 4.5 and the Ruby twice and I can't decide which I prefer! Plus I hear good things about steel. I'm starting to think about waiting. I have a 5,000.00 embroidery machine in the shop getting tuned up. If I can sell it, I might just be tempted to order a custom Luna. Decisions decisions!

In the meantime, I might get a longer stem on my 48" lower end road bike and see if that helps with my fit issues

[Catrin]

Welllll then, you didn't say that a lovely LUNA might be an option - get the longer stem and wait

Not that I've an opinion, or that I've ever been on a "real" road bike depending on one's definition. There are those around here that don't consider my beloved steel touring bike to be a road bike since she doesn't have road bars!

[warneral]

You do love your steel bike? I honestly haven't even tried a steel road bike (perhaps my old mtn bike is steel - I've no idea).

Some day I'll figure it out but I am not in a rush.

The OP loved the Madone though and do think it is a sexy bike!!!

[trek4.5]

I have a 2009 Trek Madone 4.5 and I absolutely love it. I have been riding mine for 2 years and think that I made a great choice when I bought it.

Good Luck with your decision. It is well worth the money to get a better bike and one that is fit to you. A correct fitting and bike size makes all the difference in the world when it comes to riding.

[Catrin]

You do love your steel bike? I honestly haven't even tried a steel road bike (perhaps my old mtn bike is steel - I've no idea).

Some day I'll figure it out but I am not in a rush.

The OP loved the Madone though and do think it is a sexy bike!!!

Oh my yes, I dearly love my beloved steel steed! She feels every so much better than my aluminum Trek 7.6 did (and it wasn't shabby). I cannot see my purchasing another aluminum bike again without a really good reason. Carbon I've no desire for, Ti might be an option someday.