New with 105, or used with Ultegra

ccallana said:

I'm looking at picking up a road bike, coming from riding my MTB with street tires...

I've been looking at used Giant TCRs with Ultegra components... I can get a new Felt with 105 in a similar price range.

Any thoughts on the difference?

I'd get new 105 is the price is the same.

I;ve got a 105 and it's a very nice groupset to start on. Reliable and performs well.

sufiankane said:

I;ve got a 105 and it's a very nice groupset to start on. Reliable and performs well.

I'd also go new with the 105. 105 ia good stuff.

Without more specific information about each bike it is hard to say. I think I would ride them both and buy the one that speaks to me. You will know when it is the right one... and if you aren't quite sure you could always keep looking.

ccallana said:

I'm looking at picking up a road bike, coming from riding my MTB with street tires...

I've been looking at used Giant TCRs with Ultegra components... I can get a new Felt with 105 in a similar price range.

Any thoughts on the difference?

Felt do make outstanding frames, but giant are still pretty good. You'e best bet is to get to a LBS and just ride on the bikes and see which is better. I'd rather go for a low spec bike that fits than a higher spec one that doesn't. FIt is the most important, then the components. It's like going to a job interview witha suit that doesn't fit, doesn't matter if it's a Gucci, but if it doesn't fit, it looks ridiculous.

If the frames were similar I would go for the 105 Felt. Reason is that the chain and cassette will be slightly worn and need replacing soon anyway (maybe with a year) and you can slap ultegra of those parts on. The new 105 components are really nice and quite reliable. Plus if the used frame has some carbon fiber you have to be rally sure it was treated well. The new bike you have the warranty behind it.

Fit should be the most important issue. With that said I would always select new over used. I would also test ride more than one model.