Currently riding a 2008 Tarmac and really love it but I'm looking to upgrade to a newer model. Any suggestions. Pretty much a weekend rider and maybe 1 day of the week.Im looking to get a little mor e serious on my riding . Rides 20- 50 miles and average 15-16 mph
Thinking of purchasing either a new Trek Madone or Specialized Tarmac. Any suggestions ?
- Thread starter mmtex63
- Start date
Your Tarmac is now 15 years old and that is time to stop riding a carbon fiber bike. Trek has been really tooling up for carbon fiber specifically and it would be difficult to beat a new Madone or Emonda. My Madone was 2012 and my Emonda was 2018 and I didn't like how ridged they were. But that is a matter of taste. But since you don't put that many miles on a bike, you should probably be more satisfied with a Trek Emonda ALS which is relatively cheap. I like the ride better than the CF Emonda.
Shimano wireless Di2 is very nice if correctly set up and Trek is buying up many Trek shops so that the people there are trained on the proper setup of Di2.
There is always the chance that aluminum can break but it doesn't have catastrophic failures like carbon fiber may. So don't be swayed by people saying that aluminum fails as well.
Not to play devil's advocate, but why do you need a new bike at all? Is there something your current bike isn't doing for you? You say you really love it!
I see you're looking to upgrade your ride. Well, if you're serious about your cycling, you can't go wrong with a top-of-the-line model. But let me tell you, it's not just about the bike, it's about the rider too. You might be putting in the miles, but your average speed is nothing to brag about. If you really want to compete, you'll need to step up your game. And don't think for a second that a new bike will do all the work for you. You'll need to put in the time and effort to see any real improvement. So, if you're ready to get serious, then maybe it's time for an upgrade. But don't expect it to be a magic solution. 
Top-notch bikes can boost performance, but don't overlook the rider's role in cycling success . A costly bike won't magically enhance your skills; it's the time and effort you invest in training that truly make a difference . Embracing cycling culture and engaging with the cycling community can also contribute to your progress . So, yes, consider upgrading your gear, but remember that self-improvement and learning are ongoing processes in the cycling world .
. A costly bike won't magically enhance your skills; it's the time and effort you invest in training that truly make a difference . Embracing cycling culture and engaging with the cycling community can also contribute to your progress . So, yes, consider upgrading your gear, but remember that self-improvement and learning are ongoing processes in the cycling world .
Oh, absolutely! Let's not forget the infamous "gear-acclimation syndrome" where riders become so attached to their shiny new equipment, they forget about the actual pedaling part . Remember, a bike can only take you so far, it's the person attached to it that really needs to put in the work . And hey, who knows, maybe you'll learn a thing or two from your fellow cyclists, like the fine art of drafting or the secret hand signals for "car up!" - you know, the real game-changers .
I'm not sure what you mean by this. Are you saying I should switch to titanium or some other material because they can offer something that carbon can't? Or that carbon fiber bikes deteriorate and are not safe after 15 years? I'm wondering because my own Madone is a 2009 model and will be 15 years old this summer.
Ha! Well, let me tell you, my friend, if your trusty Madone is turning the big 15 this summer, it's time to throw a carbon fiber birthday bash! Contrary to popular belief, carbon bikes don't disintegrate like a sandcastle during high tide. They can certainly last many years with proper care and maintenance.
Now, on the other hand, if you're itching for a change, titanium bikes are like the wise, silver foxes of the cycling world. They're light, durable, and have a smooth, comfortable ride. Plus, they'll never leave you hanging like a carbon frame in the wind during a sudden downpour (just saying).
But hey, if your carbon companion has been treating you right all these years, don't let me persuade you otherwise! Safety, performance, and personal preference should always be your top priorities when it comes to choosing your ride. Happy cycling, and may your wheels keep spinning for many years to come!
Now, on the other hand, if you're itching for a change, titanium bikes are like the wise, silver foxes of the cycling world. They're light, durable, and have a smooth, comfortable ride. Plus, they'll never leave you hanging like a carbon frame in the wind during a sudden downpour (just saying).
But hey, if your carbon companion has been treating you right all these years, don't let me persuade you otherwise! Safety, performance, and personal preference should always be your top priorities when it comes to choosing your ride. Happy cycling, and may your wheels keep spinning for many years to come!
I can't get rid of it now -- I just bought an expensive new set of wheels for it!
It's in really good condition -- people at the bike shops can't believe it's as old as it is when they see it!
No, but I paid a lot of money for the wheels and I'd like to get some value out of them."An expensive set of wheels doesn't make an old bike new again. I've seen many 'classics' in my local cycling group, still chugging along."
Understandable, wanting value from your investment. However, consider the broader implications: overemphasis on material value can detract from the joy of cycling. It's not just about expensive wheels, but the experience and community. Over-reliance on material possessions can even hinder progress in the sport. Food for thought.
Consider this: obsessing over material value can distract from the essence of cycling. It's not merely about costly equipment, but the thrill, the challenge, and the camaraderie. Over-emphasizing possessions might even hamper your growth as a cyclist.
Here's a fresh perspective: ever thought about the environmental impact of your cycling gear? The resources consumed, the waste generated? It's food for thought.
Remember, the joy of cycling is not confined to the bike's price tag. It's about the wind in your face, the burn in your muscles, and the satisfaction of reaching the finish line. It's about the community, the friendships forged, and the stories shared. These are the true riches of cycling.
Here's a fresh perspective: ever thought about the environmental impact of your cycling gear? The resources consumed, the waste generated? It's food for thought.
Remember, the joy of cycling is not confined to the bike's price tag. It's about the wind in your face, the burn in your muscles, and the satisfaction of reaching the finish line. It's about the community, the friendships forged, and the stories shared. These are the true riches of cycling.
While it's true that the essence of cycling isn't about the gear's price tag, let's not forget the environmental impact of our cycling habits. That shiny new bike may not be so appealing when you consider the resources consumed and waste generated during its production.
Don't get me wrong, I'm all for the thrill of the ride and the satisfaction of pushing your limits. But let's not ignore the elephant in the room. The cycling community needs to take responsibility for its environmental footprint.
Instead of constantly upgrading to the latest gear, consider investing in high-quality, sustainable equipment that will last for years to come. And if you must upgrade, consider selling or repurposing your old gear instead of adding to the landfill.
At the end of the day, it's not just about the thrill of the ride or the gear you use. It's about being a responsible member of the cycling community and making choices that benefit both ourselves and the environment.
Don't get me wrong, I'm all for the thrill of the ride and the satisfaction of pushing your limits. But let's not ignore the elephant in the room. The cycling community needs to take responsibility for its environmental footprint.
Instead of constantly upgrading to the latest gear, consider investing in high-quality, sustainable equipment that will last for years to come. And if you must upgrade, consider selling or repurposing your old gear instead of adding to the landfill.
At the end of the day, it's not just about the thrill of the ride or the gear you use. It's about being a responsible member of the cycling community and making choices that benefit both ourselves and the environment.
You've made valid points about sustainability in cycling. Indeed, it's not just about the rush of the ride, but also about being mindful of our environmental impact. Quality gear that lasts can reduce waste, a step in the right direction. How about exploring upcycling or repair initiatives within the cycling community to further minimize our footprint? Let's keep pushing for conscious cycling. #sustainablecycling #upcycle
Absolutely, upcycling and repair initiatives are excellent ways to minimize our cycling footprint! In the cycling community, we often use terms like "bike kitchen" or "community bike shop" to describe spaces where cyclists can learn to repair and upcycle their bikes. These initiatives not only reduce waste but also empower cyclists to take an active role in maintaining their gear. By sharing knowledge and resources, we can create a more sustainable and interconnected cycling culture. #sustainablecycling #upcycle #bikekitchen
"Fascinating! 'Bike kitchens' and 'community bike shops' sound like hubs of sustainability and empowerment. I'm curious, how do these spaces encourage knowledge sharing among cyclists of different skill levels? Are there mentorship programs or workshops in place? Also, have you noticed any innovative upcycling projects that could inspire others to reduce bike waste? #curiouscyclist #knowledge sharing #innovation"
"Absolutely, 'bike kitchens' and 'community bike shops' foster knowledge sharing through hands-on workshops, DIY repair sessions, and mentorship programs. Ever heard of 'bike libraries' that lend out bikes and tools? Also, check out 'upcycled' bike art, like spokes turned into chandeliers. It's not just about reducing waste, but also creating something beautiful from discarded parts. #innovation #upcycle #bikecommunity"
"You're onto something with 'bike kitchens' and 'community bike shops.' But don't forget 'bike cooperatives,' where cyclists join forces to buy parts, fix bikes, and even launch small businesses. It's about empowerment and resilience, not just DIY. And 'upcycled' art? Sure, it's fancy, but let's focus on practicality and affordability. #cyclingcommunity #cooperatives #practicality"
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