I’m an entry-level tri wannabe, looking to upgrade to a mid-level tri bike (Trek Equinox 9, Cannondale Ironman 2K (or used CI5K), QRTequila, Kestrel Talon, Cervalo P2SL, etc., etc., etc.), in the $1500-$2500 price range. I’ve only been “lightly” fitted on the TE9 so far, but for some reason just like the overall look/parts on the Cannondale line. Haven’t seen many posts here concerning Cannondale. Is there a reason? Is it comparable to the other brands in this price range? Any one have a strong objection to Cannondale products? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
I have a handle on a used 2003 CI5K for $1800. Is that a good deal? Thanks!
all3sports has the tequilo on sale for $1600. The felt’s in that range (S22 and S25) are great deals with ultegra and DA parts. The dual and P2 are also good deals. Some on a P2sl passed me a race a couple of weeks ago, and man is that a nice looking bike.
You will find alot of Crevelo fans here, and alot of recommendations for proper fit. I agree with the latter (and have never had the money for a bike like a cervelo). In that price range it is hard to go wrong. Travel to get fitted right if you need to, then buy the bike that fits and that you like the most.
Good luck, and happy shopping!
PS - I think that the reason that people here don’t jones over C’dale is that they have some parts that cannot be interchanged with other manufacturers. that and it is a little commercial for the hoity toity. Otherwise, I understand they make a nice bike. Personally I ride a lowly Trek road bike with clip ons so you don’t have to listen to me
I love my Kestrel Talon as a road bike. Didn’t care for it too much as a tri bike though. I prefer to ride real steep. Not sure that the Talon belongs on your list unless you are sure that road geometry works for you. Couldn’t recommend it more highly as a road bike though! Also, great if you like the slam position.
Gotta second the 05 tequilo. I got mine form All3sports. The thing was expertly packed and i was able to put it together in about 20 minutes. It rides great and I am having a hard time running and swimming bc I just want to ride all the time. the price is tough to beat.
Geez, this is like my 5 post concerning this bike since ive gotten it. I need help
i guess i’ll speak up for cannondale. i bought my cannondale ms 2000 in 2000 and it’s been a great, great bike. zero problems and i’m not much for bike maintenance. i’ve ridden it to 3 im finishes and countless duathlons, etc.
Well being a CERVELO owner, I would go for the Dual 10. This bike is a great deal and with the money that you save you could get some great upgrades. The only things that I would upgrade would be a great set of race wheels (maybe a RENN disk), compact cranks and a saddle of your choice.
That is just what I would do. I have an older Dual with Ultegra 9 and have upgraded some of the parts in the last year. It is a great bike. RENN disk will be my last upgrade for this bike.
I purchased a FELT S22 this spring, and just absolutely LOVE the bike. The component package is fantastic (Dura Ace, FSA, Profile Carbon aerobars, Easton Circuit wheels) and just doesn’t come close in price to other bikes with similar components. To be honest, I am not sure how Felt sells these bikes for the price they do.
Find the bike you love and fits, in that price range you can’t go wrong.
If you wait until after labor Day you can find smoking deals, some are already out there to be had as the shops get rid of the old to make room for the 06’s. I got my S25 last year for $1,250 when all I was looking for was the S32.
As for the Cannondale, and I ride an R1000, I could never get over the graphics, circus sounds go off in my head when I see it, which may mean something to you or not, doesn’t sound like it, so if you like it and it fits go for it. But at least check out all of the great deals on similar spec’d rides out there.
Just enjoy the process, I am never so happy as when I am shopping for a bike.
I’ll put my vote in for a Guru Cron’alu. I ride a tri-lite and love it. My neighbor just got the Cronalu for about $1900 with mostly Ultegra parts. Great bike for the price.
