Bike shopping

[jen]

Thank you to everyone who gave me their suggestions on looking for a bike. Just got back from my first round of shopping and am so confused!!! Went to 3 stores, 2 of which I am interested in purchasing from. At Bike Authority they had me try 2 bikes, a Trek WSO 1.0 and a Cannondale Synapse 7. At Century Cycles I tried a Giant OCR2.

Anyone have any knowledge about these bikes? Also, what about the "female fit?" the bikes at Bike Authority were both that but then at Century Cycles they said those are more for petite females (I am 5'7) so they said I didn't need one of those. It's so hard. Any suggestions/recommendations would be very welcome!!!!

[MattCollister]

WHich bike did you like best?

Buy that one.

[jen]

Thanks for making it seem so simple ;D

I know you are probably right. I just feel like I should do more research or something before making such an investment. I liked the bikes at bike authority best. It's hard to say which one there I liked better b/c the one bike was too small. They offered to get out another one but I didn't want to spend the time then. I suppose I will probably go back and test/get fitted. There they said they can fit me on both and look at which one seems to fit me better, and then I'd be on the bike longer too to get a better feel.

[Jack Carney]

If you liked the bikes at Bike Authority go for one of them. They are club sponsors, nice people and provide good pricing and service and a discount to CTC members. I drive there from Mayfield Village to get my bike serviced passing other bike stores that are closer. And you will also get professionally fitted for your bike which is of utmost importance especially if you are going to be riding long. Some of the other shops will just eyeball it and send you on your way.

[jen]

Thanks so much! That is how I was feeling after going to a few stores. Bike A. is the farthest for me but it does seem worth it.

[Aussie Rob]

You should also visit Spin. BA and Spin are the two best shops in the area, and both will take the time to fit you properly.

Frankly, the bikes you are looking at are remarkably similar in specs, and as a first time buyer, the componentry will make little difference to you on the road. What is most important is what is most comfortable. You could fork out for a Madone, or a Tarmac, or whatever.....but if it doesn't fit you properly, it'll be uncomfortable and you won't enjoy riding it. The best speced bike in the world is junk if it's uncomfortable.

Also consider things like discounts on accessories. How many free tuneups will they give you? How often can you come back in to adjust the fit? All very important for first time buyers.

Also remember that this is supposed to be fun. I love bike shopping, and bikes in general. Don't get too hung up on the components....they will all be more than adequate for what you will do with the bike. When you do finally outgrow the components, chances are you'll be looking for a whole new bike. n+1....welcome to the addiction

[Brian Luther]

What ever bike you choose, you will always have great service at Bike Authority....... A great fit on the bike, will make for an effecient effort on the roads ahead.......

The most expensive bike in the world or one with the greatest components, will never make you a great cyclist. The athlete and the training put forth, is the "true formula" to success in cycling.

Brian

[alison]

I am 5'8" and ride a Trek WSD. They are not just for petite women. The difference has more to do with the ratio of leg length versus torso length. Many women have longer legs than men and the WSD are created to fit that body type better. BA is very good at bike fitting, so if they suggested a WSD for your body, I would believe them. That is not to say you couldn't be comfortable on a a regular geometry road bike, too.

EDIT: just occurred to me, everyone might not know WSD = women's specific design

Alison

[jeffjls]

Jen,


I spent about 3 weeks taking my time searching for a bike, started at Spin in Lakewood b/c it is in my neghborhood. They had great suggestions and great information along with great service. I then went to Century and Performance and came back to Spin. On Saturday they put my bike and gear in the basement with a good deposit while I wait for my shoes.

They helped me realize that an entry level bike is a great bike and were very helpful. I got the Specialized Allez and they were very helpful in staying in my budget for accessories and did not try to upsell me. I am confident that BA is a similar situation, I would just like to be closer to home. For me, I felt better with them than anyone, and that is what sold me on the bike...the store and the service.

Good luck!

Jeff

[jen]

Yes, so I went and spent about 2.5 hrs at Spin on Saturday! They were very nice, patient, informative, etc. I was about to make a purchase but wanted to "sleep on it." They also recommended the WSD, there is one by specialized or felt. Any comments or suggestions on that? Also, I was initially looking at the dolce but then asked about moving up to dolce elite and they recommended if you can budget it to do so because it is worth what you get for the about $300 more in price. Any comments about that? Just curious because I really want to make a final decision and order it (so unfortunately it will probably be 1-2weeks more till I get my bike).

[Angie]

Jen-
The upgrade in the elite is mostly in the shifting components. The difference between the two bikes is about a $500-600 upgrade if done after the fact. So I would agree that if you have the extra money it would be worth it to upgrade. You get a little lighter bike with better parts that will work better and last longer.

As far as the WSD goes.... chose the bike that fits you best. My first bike was a WSD bike and it was great. If you feel bunched up on it then it is not right for you.... the WSD are not just for small females but for females in general because women generally have shorter torsos then men. Here is the writeup from the trek website. Ride both types and see what you like better.


'WSD bikes are engineered for women. Each bike puts you in a more natural riding position by redistributing weight more evenly between hips and hands. That means more comfort, better control and optimal power. '

ANGIE

[Aussie Rob]

It's more than just the drivetrain.

You get carbon seat stays on the elite, better fork (full carbon with zertz), better wheels (triple wall over double), and a nicer cranks too.

Basically means a more shock absorbent frame, wheels that will stay truer longer that will have less flex under load, and stiffer cranks. All worthy upgrades.

[traciezamiska]

i agree with angie and rob. i spent a little more on my bike than i had initially wanted because of several factors, one being that the upgraded version came with more. i still did some significant upgrades at the time of purchase but i'm glad i have a bike that will work for me for a few years instead of needing an full overhaul a year later. good luck! let us know what you decide!

[jen]

Thanks so much for all the input. I'm just about positive I'm going with the WSD and the elite. Hoping to go order it tomorrow after work. It def seems worth it. Thanks again!

[mdavis]

I just spoke with John at Spin (he was working with you Saturday and is my husband). He said that if you call soon, they can get your bike on today's Specialized order! Hope everything works out for you