I am new to road biking but have been thinking about it for a few years now. I want a bike I can enjoy and feel strong in, but I'm not good enough to appreciate the high end bikes so I think a middle of the road is what I'm after. I test road the 2009 Allez Elite and it seems to be what I am looking for.
Assuming I can get an 2010 Allez Elite for the same price, are there any considerations I should be aware of? 2010 105 group is different from 2009? A1 vs E5 aluminum? Etc. Major reason for considering the 2009, it is at my LBS and I'd like to support them. However (before negotiations) they are asking $200 more than the 2010 model a few hrs drive away.
Any suggestions on which year to go assuming I can get either for the same price?
The bikes are virtually the same. The Shimano 105 components did not change from 2009 to 2010. They did change this year so the components that you are getting will be a little different from the 2011 bikes. If I were in your position, I would go ahead and negotiate with your LBS and let them know that there is a 2010 for $200 less close enough at hand that you are considering it. They will probably then settle for $200 less on their 2009. But for all intents and purposes, they are the same bike. That is, as long as they are built up per Specialized's specifications. There is no way for me to know what tweaks in components the shops may have done since they have had the bikes.
