2010 Hi Mod SuperSix?

If you're intending on racing, I wouldn't change bikes and would instead put that $1800 toward entry fees, consumables, maybe even new wheels. What is on your bike now? Detail your build for us. Note that the Hi-Mod isn't going to make you faster, and it is possible that the CAAD could survive multiple crashes better than the Hi-Mod. The relatively high probability of crashing when racing newbies, Cat 5's is something you have to consider. One big reason why the CAAD series has been such a hugely successful series of bikes is that they hold up very well to rough and tumble racing.

I have a 2010 SuperSix HiMod and I love it. I've ridden lots of bikes and I think for pure "road feel" it's the best bike out there. I've ridden a few bikes that have left me like clenched sphyncter going down hill but the Hi-Mod just dares you to push it harder...

... that said, it really doesn't make you go faster on the flats or in the sprints. It is supremely comfortable and it's ability to absorb 'road chatter' is amazing but you'd be much better off spending that money on a power meter and training wisely. That said, when I spent 4 weeks dodging crashes and getting rid of the Cat5 license I road my training bike. [IMG]/img/vbsmilies/smilies/ROTF.gif[/IMG]

If you're more interested in crits and/or flatter road races then something like the Cervelo S2 or S3 would probably be a better choice.

As for that bike, give the frame a good look over. Crash damage isn't hard to spot. Even if you do crash a carbon bike, repairs by Calfee are dollar wise, on a par with steel bikes. Calfee have been in the carbon bike business since the 80s and have had guys win Tour de Frances on their bikes.

If the bike has the Cannondale SL Si Hollowgram cranks you could buy the bike and sell the cranks for a pretty penny. :P

My CAAD9 has a carbon fork, FSA components, Romin Expert saddle, Force crank, BB30 and mostly Rival components. It weighs in at ~17.8 lbs ready to ride, no water.

My strength is definitely in climbing, so I don't think I'll be catering for flats. I find them fun, but I doubt I'll be a dominant sprinter anytime soon.

I don't really have delusions that a new bike will help me get faster, but do hope that it gives me a little extra edge in bursts and keeps me fresher at the end of a ride or the next day. It sounds like there's a lot of things I could be investing in to make me a better cyclist, and you guys don't think that a nicer bike is the way to go?

I was thinking, if I could sell my CAAD9 for ~1000, then it would be an $800 upgrade to a similarly aged bike that is a lot more comfortable, lighter and stiffer. Or keep both and have 2 racing bikes. Is $1800 even a good deal for the 2010 Hi-Mod? What if it was 1700 or 1600?

I inspected the frame pretty closely - there are some scratches and he pointed them all out - it does look like it's in pretty good condition.

For the price, I'd rather have new wheels.