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avro707

macrumors 68020
Dec 13, 2010
2,263
1,654
We've got a lot of options around here, and I've also been looking at Cervelo S1 which I can get at a good price (though more costly than the Trek you have). There are a few other Trek bikes in the price range too. I don't need to rush - I'll wait for the budget to come along for it (new emergency computer purchase killed the finances for a while).

Cheers for the advice. :)
 

crdean1

macrumors 6502a
Original poster
Feb 14, 2005
674
4
Texas
What up? I sold the Cannondale "John Deere" in post #1 and bought a Surly Cross Check frame for a commuter (long route). Then I wanted disc brakes, so I had this guy do a retrofit and add a frame split so it would be future belt drive compatible.

Then the paint shop, then components. Finally finished. Here's the final product after a three month process. I actually think it's a more comfortable ride than my road bike.

photo23c.jpg


photo3go.jpg


And a pic of my road bike, been posted before but made a few changes. Love it.

img1981cq7.jpg
 

Kenzembo1

macrumors 6502
Dec 22, 2008
361
0
Youngstown, OH
Thinking about investing in my first road bike!

I currently have a Trek hybrid something or another (it's an older model, not sure which one) and I'm looking to purchase an entry-level road bike that will serve me well for the next 3-5 years and won't break my bank. I'm looking in the $700-$800 range.

I'm a runner and just recently got into biking last year. As a student, I don't have a lot of free time throughout the week but usually log a consistant 60-70 mi. during most weeks (weather permitting).

I'll admit, I'm not very well-versed on road bikes and their components...it's hard for me to tell one from the other when looking at specs alone, so I was hoping you guys can help me make a more informed decision.

Right now, I'm looking at two models:

1.) Trek 1.1 series
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/road/1_series/11/

and

2.) Giant Defy 3
http://www.bikesale.com/giant-defy-3-road-bike-2011.aspx

Both cost nearly the same and (from what I can tell) have comparable specs. I plan on going to my two local bike shops to test drive both models but was hoping you guys might be able to offer some insight.

Does anyone have experience with both brands/models? If so, which do you prefer and why? I'm kind of new at this but I guess my primary goal is to get a fast, reliable, good-looking bike for under $1,000. I don't know if it matters, but I'm 5' 7" and weigh around 125 lbs.

Thanks! :)
 

obey908

macrumors 6502a
Sep 21, 2008
639
3
San Francisco
Is the gravity avenue a from bikesdirect, a decent road bike to get for under $300? Only need it for a mile ride each way to the metro station. Any other recommendations?
 

xUKHCx

Administrator emeritus
Jan 15, 2006
12,583
9
The Kop
Both cost nearly the same and (from what I can tell) have comparable specs. I plan on going to my two local bike shops to test drive both models but was hoping you guys might be able to offer some insight.

I have no expereince with either brands but do have some general advice.

Go to your local bike store.

A good fit is very important to how comfortable and fast you'll be. The difference between the two bikes will be noticable once you sit on them, you'll probably find yourself liking one over the other.

Also you don't need a 2011 bike your local bike shop might have some 2010s in, which they should be able to give you a discount on. I managed to get a step up in terms of bike for the same budget this way.

Have a good long sit on them and ask for a test ride and take them out for as long as you can. You can always post back here once you have seen the bikes in the flesh.

Is the gravity avenue a from bikesdirect, a decent road bike to get for under $300? Only need it for a mile ride each way to the metro station. Any other recommendations?

For a mile each way as long as it has wheels it doesn't really matter to be honest. I'm sure you could find a second hand bike road/mountain for way less than $300 that will be perfect for the job, a family member or friend probably will have one somewhere. If you do get a second hand mountain bike take the nobbly tyres off and put some slicker ones on.
 

mc68k

macrumors 68000
Apr 16, 2002
1,996
0
just built up this guy last weekend. been on 2 rides with it so far :D still needs some work and parts
 

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MSD401

macrumors 6502
Oct 18, 2006
284
3
Final got my ride setup to us my iphone to track rides, and read cue sheets. Not perfect yet but works pretty well.
 

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rhythmac

macrumors 6502
Mar 29, 2009
342
84
NYC
I've seen quite a few of these bikes over at "Bike Forums.net".
My name over there is "RhythmRider"
 

pagansoul

macrumors 65816
Aug 10, 2006
1,040
43
Earth
Eastern Milk Snake

Record #533 You ran accross an Eastern Milk Snake.

The Eastern Milk Snake suffers from one of the myths about snakes, that it milks cows. That belief/story plainly is not true. Also, people sometimes kill Eastern Milk Snakes because of their resemblance to the Northern Copperhead Snake.
Actually, the Eastern Milk Snake is a beneficial animal, especially on farms. It actively seeks out and feeds on mice and other small rodents that infest barns and other farm buildings.
The Eastern Milk Snake usually is secretive and hides under objects such as logs, boards and stones.



Pictures: First is of my bike. Second is of a snake my son & I almost rode over and I'm a bit shocked because its tail was vibrating when we approached it - no sound but i swear its a rattlesnake. [bummed out as I did record it and it did NOT save on my Bold 9700 :(]
 

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eternlgladiator

macrumors 68000
Jun 20, 2010
1,766
104
Twin Cities
I've seen quite a few of these bikes over at "Bike Forums.net".
My name over there is "RhythmRider"

I'm a member over there too. I don't spend a ton of time there though. I prefer macrumors since its more in the know for me. I'm still new to modern road cycling. I road back when I was a kid and in high school but that old stuff is nothing like my new bike.
 

i.phone4

macrumors member
Jun 15, 2010
73
0
Waiting for the weather to warm up so I can start cycling again.
img1360a.jpg
Picked this Trek up for a little under $600 and it's a dream.
 

Heavy Fluid

macrumors 6502
Jun 18, 2008
473
8
Just got this last week. Been on one trail so far, and I love it. Saturday will be the test, going with a group on a trail I have never been on.

2010 Specialized Stumpjumper FSR Comp

FSRSide2.jpg
 

DeepIn2U

macrumors G5
May 30, 2002
13,051
6,984
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Heavy, that's a sick bike! Last year that was my first choice but seriously too expensive and the lower rockhopper or others by Specialized just didn't cut it.

How did you do on the trail?!
 

Heavy Fluid

macrumors 6502
Jun 18, 2008
473
8
The trail was an absolute blast, but was technically above my skill level. This bike is so amazing!!! It just rolls right over tree roots and rocks, and is a pretty good climber as well. I got some decent air after hitting a bit of a jump. More than I had ever gotten before.
 
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