Im looking at getting into road riding to get into better shape and lose some weight. I dont plan on doing any races and would probably just work my way up to distance riding of some sort. I wanted to look for a comforable bike so my neck and beck dont hurt as much. On my visit to my LBS i had the chance to ride two bikes the salesperson recommended: The Cannondale Synapse Carbon 3 and also a Specialized Roubiax (dont remeber the model) that both had Shimano 105. They both felt good to me, with my limited knowledge, and road great. With the Roubaix feeling slightly more upright. Both are priced the same at $2k. Would it benefit me to go up a model or so for a few hundred extra? Last years models are not out of the question. Also There was a 2009 Specialized Tarmac there with full Ultegra for $2200, but they didnt have my size so I could not try it out. I didnt think about it then but would it be possible to make it a more relaxe ride by changing the stem or other items then slowly change it to more performance in future?
Im looking at getting into road riding to get into better shape and lose some weight. I dont plan on doing any races and would probably just work my way up to distance riding of some sort. I wanted to look for a comforable bike so my neck and beck dont hurt as much. On my visit to my LBS i had the chance to ride two bikes the salesperson recommended: The Cannondale Synapse Carbon 3 and also a Specialized Roubiax (dont remeber the model) that both had Shimano 105. They both felt good to me, with my limited knowledge, and road great. With the Roubaix feeling slightly more upright. Both are priced the same at $2k. Would it benefit me to go up a model or so for a few hundred extra? Last years models are not out of the question. Also There was a 2009 Specialized Tarmac there with full Ultegra for $2200, but they didnt have my size so I could not try it out. I didnt think about it then but would it be possible to make it a more relaxe ride by changing the stem or other items then slowly change it to more performance in future?
I don't own one, but I would definitely consider a JAMIS Coda before either of the two bikes the shop is trying to sell you.
For another $600US (or, less), I/you/anyone could convert it into a pretty nice "road" bike with DROP bars, Campagnolo 10-speed shifters + some other/minor drivetrain changes.
