(Mrs.) Santa gave me cash for my first tri bike (just started this thing 2 mo. ago. I want to spend 1300-1500, and don’t want to fall into the upgrade-in-1-year trap. It seems that these 2 rides are priced comparatively, although the One with 105 and QR w/mostly Ultegra.
I’m 6’4, 198, so I need at least a 61cm. Can you give me feedback, and compare/contrast the bikes?
I appreciate your help.
In my opinion (I sell plenty of both bikes) they are not comparable: Totally different fit tendencies. Stop comparing bikes and start comparing fit. Let me ask you: which one fits you better?
Good question. It’s been difficult finding either in my size that I can actually ride. I may even have to fit in a shop visit on a biz trip. I guess that would be advisable. So far, the LBS’ have said they could order that size, but I do not want to commit to buying anything until I know I like/want it.
I’ll challenge you with another question: Why would you want to ride it? Think about this- What empiracle, pragmatic information will you gather during a test ride? Our expereince is most people look for some elusive, enigmatic thing called “feel” during a test ride. I don’t think “feel” is a good way to make a buying decision. The measurements are a pragmatic, mostly-scientific way to determine exactly which bike will interface with your body dimensions. I know I can’t tell which bike is the best for me from a test ride. Put your faith in the measurements and your fitter and skip the test ride. Best of luck, wear your helmet all the time.
Question, then. Is it advisable to get fitted by a reputable fitter, with recommendation on manufacturer, size, etc.?
What is the best way to find out which bike fits me?
My recommendation (remember- one man’s opinion, you know what they say about opinions…) is to find a good triathlon bike store within an acceptable drive from your location. Give them a call and ask about how they fit bikes, sell bikes- generally ask about their process and experience. They should be asking questions like “How are you going to use the bike” and “What specific events are you looking at over the next three-five years?” If they try to wrngle you in for a fitting that is probably a good sign. If they try to push the “bike of the week” on you that may not be such a good sign. If the information you gather from them supports their expereince and expertise as an established and credible triathlon bike store make an appointment and go there. Get measured. Listen to their advice carefully and ask pointed questions about why they are recommending what they are recommending. Make sure you understand their answers. You may find yourself learning quite a bit about bikes in general and fit specifically. My slant on this is they should not charge for it: How much do you pay to get fitted for running shoes? Nothing- it is a necessary part of the sale. I don’t charge for a fitting- it is part of the service we owe every customer. If their references check out and you have sound reason for buying from them buy what they recommend, as long as you understand why you are buying it.
Now, if you don’t have access to someone who can perfrom those services then I recommend calling John Cobb (or one of his crew) or Craig Turner at Nytro (or one of his guys). These guys have experience selling over the web and the phone (I do not). I have seen their work and, as a “competing” bike retailer, I have to say, they do a fine job. I hope that answers your questions. Oh, did I mention, have a Happy New Year. Only smart people wear helmets all the time.
I just flipped to the last page of the Forum. 8 years and we still ask the same questions.