Upgrade question

[hebe]

Thanks Shannon, I will ask. I think he's the kind of guy who'll have plenty of contacts.

The next model up does have disc brakes, but I don't love the colour scheme. Above that one I'm still not wild about the colours and they start getting out of budget.

I think I am keen on disc brakes, most of my riding is off-road in tightly defined time slots, when dd is in a childcare session and my dh is working - often abroad. I can't help thinking that anything that improves my safety is a good idea. However I could just go with the base model and wait for the muddier tracks to dry out a bit after winter.

[pinsonp2]

Don't know about the UK, but here in the US, the LBS can go to Specialized on-line and see what 2010s are leftover, current price (lower than original), colors, sizes, etc. I ordered a 2010 Crostrail last month and got the size and color the hubby wanted.

Good Luck,
P2

[hebe]

Thank you! I'll give them a ring in the morning.

[Becky]

Definitely ask.... I ordered a 2007 Fuji in 2009. It was just sitting, brand new, in a warehouse somewhere.

Bike manufacturers have started producing fewer numbers of bikes in the last couple of years or so. If you're seeking a popular size, there may not be any bikes left, but you have nothing to lose by asking.

[hebe]

hmmm. I phoned and spoke to a very helpful woman who works there two days a week. They can't get hold of any more of the 2010 Specialized, and an upgrade on an entry level bike would be silly money.

She did suggest that I look at a Giant Revel, or a Specialized Hardrock, so I'll go in next week on one of her days. There's still the option to go for something without disc brakes and just stay out of the really muddy stuff. I do feel a bit as if the tail is wagging the dog by wanting to love the colour as much as the bike, but I want a bike that will make me smile every time I see it. Hopefully they get that.

[Bike Writer]

but I want a bike that will make me smile every time I see it. Hopefully they get that.

I have to love what a bike looks like, period. Riding is such a joy every part of the experience engages our senses from the smells outdoors, the sights we see, wind on our face, it's a very tactile experience. A bike you love to look at will invite you to "come out and play."

The bike in your link is beautiful, how fun to be out bike hunting. It can be daunting to be sure, but in the end it will be so worth it. Lucky gal with your DH getting you a new bike for Christmas, very sweet indeed!

Happy hunting, I hope you find the bike of your dreams.

[chicagogal]

I too have to like what a bike looks like. However, I happen to like the colors on the 2011 a lot!!!!! My road bike is a black/white LOOK with touches of red including red bar tape. The black/red/white combo is very sexy in my opinion :-)

Good luck hunting. I am sure you will find a bike with your specifications that is also a color you LOVE!!!