Ok guys after much deliberation and sleepless nights, here is my new ride at the link below. Because I am never going to be Norman Stadler (thats an understatement) I decided to save a few bucks and bought it through the ebay dealer of all places for a total of 2400.00 (not sure how they do this but hey it rides awesome). Before everyone starts picking it apart here are the particulars. This is the Leader 785r Aluminum Frame with carbon fork, carbon rear triangle and carbon seat post. The components are all Dura-Ace 7800 10sp including the pedals. Flight deck computer, Fizik Arione Saddle. The cages are Bontrager, but I need to change them to elites because the bolt pattern as you can see has the water bottles touching. The rims are are upgraded Bontrager race x-lites with continental grand prix tires. Can you guys give me any suggestions for clip on aero bars? I notices the ones Tom has listed (the shorties for 69.00) but I may want a little longer ones. I am 6’3" and they seem awkward…one last thing don’t, make fun of my spacers for the stem height, I don’t want to cut anything until I get my aero bars!
Those Leader bikes are awesome. I got a chance to spend a day on one out here in Honolulu. A comparably-equipped one like that from one of the “big boys” would set you back another grand, easy.
I am planning on doing some short distance triathlons next year to get my feet wet (literally) in the sport. I feel really confident in my bike/run but will be working hard on the swim this winter. I have been an avid road warrior for the past 20 years and would like to change it up a little hence the new bike. Which is why I am interested in everyones opinion on clip on aero bars. Any Advice?
Thanks, I have to tell you I have ridden Cannondales for 20 years and no they did not have full dura-ace on them but there is no comparison in ride comfort. I notice a difference on the flats, but that may be because a I paid for a proper bike fitting and have the proper tri and road measurements to work off of The biggest difference is in the hills, I know this sounds funny, but it feels like a feather and seemingly has zero frame flex. I am again 6’3" 210lbs and it is comparable to a 60cm Cannondale. I don’t know how they do it for the price, but if you know what you want it is a great bike.
I still think the Profile Jammers are a very good deal. They might be a little bit heavier but the adjustablity is great. Since you can remove some spacers, the additional height shouldn’t be a problem. I switched to some bar-mounted armrests since I have the old version.
They can be had for signficantly less than $50.- new on close-out nowadays.
Tom, thanks for the compliments! I had asked in my original post if anyone had a suggestion on which clip on aero bars would be a good choice for my new ride. I saw one of your prior post about the vision shorties for $69 but based on your comments it leads me to believe that they may be a little short do to my height. Do you have any other suggestions on which bars would be good that I could order from you based on your experience. I am not saying money does not matter, but I am willing to buy the right equipment (Hey I have went this far! Thanks One last thing, do any of the options allow me to keep my computer mounted right next to the stem?
It’s a gorgeous bike, no need to be ashamed at actually posting the picture.
Thanks One last thing, do any of the options allow me to keep my computer mounted right next to the stem?