I have had my current bike (Specialized Rockhopper) for 6 years now and I am looking to buy a road bike this time. I am currently looking at the Cannondale Synapse Carbon 5 and the Novara Strada 2008. I plan on test riding these 2 bikes tomorrow. Anyone have any other suggestions for bikes I can try? Thanks.
Damn it's too bad you don't live up here. My friend owns a bike shop in town and I can get you a sweet deal on any bike you want. Dude is ridiculous at hooking up people that he knows.
Cannondale make great light frames but they usually skimp a little on the components. I also found the one I owned to be a bit too rigid. I currently own a Bianchi and enjoy it. They are really quality. Since I like it I have not kept up with the current road bike scene so can't say any specifics.
I totally agree. Bianchi makes great bikes. I'm also a huge fan of Scott. They make quality bikes as well.
My advice would be to set a budget and then get the bike that fits best from a good bike store without worrying too much on the brand. I can't emphasize enough how important fit is on a road bike. If it happens to be a Trek or Cannondale or whatever then so be it. Don't get too caught up in the brands as longs as they are reasonably "good" brands. There are a ton of good bikes out here. If you live in Houston go to Bikesport . They are one of the few stores in town that specializes in "serious" cycling as in they don't sell cheap bikes for kids at Christmas to stay in business. They have good bikes and a good staff.
what are you using it for? transportation or training? for transportation purposes, an aluminum bike is good enough plus less chance of getting it stolen. for serious exercise, all the bike manufactures mentioned thus far are great, you can also add trek and giant to the equation. fit is the most important aspect as someone mentioned, you also need to set aside at least a grand for clip pedals, shoes, cleats, a helmet, possibly heart rate monitor, cadence, and also good riding shorts.
