OK, in another post I've run into a quandry... should I buy a bike with a nicer frame and lower groupo, or nicer groupo and slightly lower quality frame (given that the total bike prices is fixed)?
The specifics are -- I was looking at a Felt F45 for myself. Al frame with carbon fiber seat stays and fork, and full ultegra (+ dura-ace rear derailleur). Price ~$1700.
Alternate that I'm starting to look at: Klein Aura X. A beautiful! frame (same Al/Carbon construction) but with full 105 (+ultegra f/r derailleur).
I need to go ride the Klein, and I'm sure will end up buying what feels best overall... but I was just wondering what the prevailing wisdom or philosophy is on this? Spend more for a nicer frame? Or spend more for nicer components?
1 more key difference in the 'components' category (sort of) I forgot to mention -- the Klein comes with a Bontrager Race Road wheelset, vs. the Felt's Mavic Ksyrium Equipe.
If you plan on keeping the bike for a while; components come and go and can be easily upgraded. They are both good choices in that price range, but if you have a definite preference as to the frame, you can always upgrade parts of the groupo at a later date.
I agree with sereneaslu. Better to put the extra cash into the frame. Components can be upgraded over time as they wear-out. A good frame can last many, many years.
