Hey guys,
I have a bike purchasing dilemma. I am currently borrowing a friends bike, (initially with intention to purchase), which is a GT Edge Aero frame with vision TT bars, shimano ultegra components, and Hed Jet front, and Hed Jet Deep Rear wheel. (These are all pretty old…). Anyways the size of the top tube is 58.5 cm, and I am looking to purchase it for 600-700. However, today I found a velovie veloce 100 frame with some components (shimano ultegra 6600 deraillers, brakes/areo brake levers) and TT bars for 650. The top tube length is 57cm. I calculated my stack and reach (roughly) and it said that my ideal top tube length is 56-57.1 cm. I feel a bit stretched out on the GT, I sit on the tip of the seat, which is pretty painful when riding in Aero position for extended periods of time…so i figure that if i build it right, I can get away with 900 ish for a complete velo vie. I like the idea of carbon, because the frame is only 1.4 kg. What are your thoughts? how have you guys found velo vie frames? Im not looking to spend huge amounts of money…I am a college student, but I do want to get something that will last a long time…with the high chance of an ironman in my future…
any recommendations?
trev
Get the one that fits best, and then get fitted for it. You wouldnt run in shoes that didnt fit, why bike that way?
True. good point justin. Ok just one more question, ive narrowed my replacements down to either building up a Cervelo P3, buying a Planet X Stealth with SRAM rival build kit, or getting the Velo Vie. After assembly, they will all be about 1000-1100. They all fit, the only benefit to getting the planet x is that i would buy it new, so i get a warranty… Im a little iffy on carbon, however. Ive heard horror stories (not about planet x, but just in general) of bikes crashing and having to get a new frame. As a college student, i cant afford a new frame every time something happens. Thoughts?
Trev
I understand what its like being a college student. I just got out about 18 months ago, and I know this can be one expensive sport. To get a P3 for around 1100 is an insane deal if it is carbon. I have a Cervelo Duel, and I paid 1250 for it brand new with a good discount.
I really have no experience with Planet X, but I do know that a lot of people really love Cervelo, including me!
I don’t think you have to worry too much about needing to replace things. I mean if you get hit by a car you’ll have way more to worry about then your bike. All and all if they both fit great, pick the one the looks the sexiest to you cause thats what its about. Just remember if you have a P3 when you show up on race day you better bring it, otherwise people like me on there lower end bikes will be gunning for you!
The P3 is aluminum…its an older model, i think 05? Anyways, justin, how tall are you and what size is your frame? If you dont mind me asking. I see guys on the forums who are 5’10" riding 52-55cm cervelo p3s, and im 5’10" looking at a 54cm, but i have shorter legs…only a 29" inseam (!) Sadly, I dont have the ability to “try before I buy”, so it will be a closest guess fit thing, and get it adjusted once it gets out here and is all in order…kinda why i like planet x. i at least can work with the manufacturer to ensure a good fit…
trev
I’m on a 51cm Alu P3 at 5’10" and 33" inseam. I have a 120mm stem I think, and it is about flat but I have a relatively high stack aerobar setup. So, figure out your approximate fit first.
Im just over 6’1 and I ride on a 56, but I have long legs so for me its just about putting my seat up. I think you should try the P3 at a bike store and see what size fits you. After that I would say make up your mind. I don’t see anything wrong with trying it out and buying some where else.
Ive used stack and reach, and I know that my top tube should be between 56-57.1 cm. I really measure by the top tube, because, as was noted, vertical height is very adjustable. Does anyone know what a Alu P3 54cm’s top tube length is?
Trev