Hi there,
I'm looking to buy my first road bike - I want to get bike and all necessary equipment for around the £1k mark.
I've been along to a few bike shops and have narrowed my choices down to a few.
1) Specialized Allez Elite 2010
2) Bianchi Via Nirone 7 Tiagra 2010
3) Trek Pilot 2.0 2010
I'm leaning towards the Specialized - it does seem to have some good reviews and I also like the way it looks.
There's also a niggling thought in my head about the Boardman Team Carbon, but it's a bit pricey for a first bike and I've heard a lot of horror stories about Halfords - plus I think it would be good to get used to an aluminium frame for my first bike.
Pedal-wise, I was thinking about the Shimano 105 SPD-SL.
Initially, I'll just be doing long rides at the weekend, but may start commuting in London when I get some confidence.
Any advice, comments on my choices or alternative suggestions greatly appreciated.
Thanks.