I'm currently looking to get my first road bike. So far, the base model allez and giant ocr2 are looking like my favorites. As far as components go, which is the better bike?
Also, any other bikes in that price range that would be comparable to those brands?
Sorry if these questions are kind of vauge, but Im just starting out and need a little direction. None of my LBS carry both so it might be hard to get an honest answer from the stores that compete with each other for business. Thanks a bunch
I think the whole Junior Member thing is funny, have you seen that?
OKAY a new bike. First of all pick a material, obviously in that price range your only going to be dealing with Steel and Aluminum, GO with Aluminum. Its a little lighter, and more responsive.
Then parts...probably save money with Shimano, and try to keep everything at their 105 level or up, clearly the Tiagra and Sora parts are acceptable, but as I read in another thread, it is useless to quabble over 150 bucks for the difference those parts actually make, seriously the difference between the Ultegra, (my bike) and 105 is very difficult to notice, so go with the 105.
Brands and makes... I ride a Tommaso. This is not an Italian bike (used to be) but then again American businesses used to actually be American too, and Randy Jackson from American Idol was fat...who knew cutting your stomach into a tenth of what it once was can help you lose 200 lbs.
Tommaso is sold by one manufacturer in Florida. Getaway bikes with whom I have no direct affiliation other than being a customer. I bought a Tommaso AS1 road bike which comes with a Carbon Fiber fork (necessity) and 105/Ultegra Parts. The cost was 700 including flip flop pedals which allow both clip shoes for long distances and running sneakers for easier riding (perfect for a first bike and cheap, 30 bux)
The bike is super tight, very responsive for an entry level bike. Everything about this bike screams great deal, better than Giant or Felt or Trek or Cannondale as far as componentry in relation to price.
In fact most bikes with a 105/Ultegra group of shifters, and derailleurs start at 1100, so right off the bat your saving like 500 bux man...what a way to go!!!!!
Tommaso bikes use an Easton or Kinesis Ultralight 7000 frame. Very respectable for entry level. The brakes could be upgraded (60 bux) and anything else such as rims or seat post is just starting to get a little to picky.
Tommaso bikes have a draw back, you can not test ride one unless you know someone that owns one or can get to Pompano Beach Florida where their headquarters is. It is a beautiful bicycle for a great price. By the way the picture and specs at Tommasobikes.com are outdated , probably because in order to buy one you must go through their http://www.Getawaybikes.com online retail store.
Anyway, if the whole can't try before you buy thing gets to you, do what I did, and go check out other bikes with the same tubing and components, I bet the price will make you think twice, It is a perfect beginner bicycle that can be used for years considering the parts you get are already high-end.
Good luckk junior member
