Hi, I used to do a bit of mountain biking a few years back but would like to get into road cycling. At this point I'm considering between a Specialized Allez and a Giant OC3.
I've found many reviews for the Allez but not any for the OC3, though I think someone had mentioned that the Giant did not absorb shocks very well.
Also I see that I can page about $400 more and go to the Allez Elite or OC1 - given that my goal is not really to race, but more for fitness and weekend length tours, which brand would people recomend? And is it worth the extra $400 to go from the low end model to the upper-level model?
Hi, I used to do a bit of mountain biking a few years back but would like to get into road cycling. At this point I'm considering between a Specialized Allez and a Giant OC3.
I've found many reviews for the Allez but not any for the OC3, though I think someone had mentioned that the Giant did not absorb shocks very well.
Also I see that I can page about $400 more and go to the Allez Elite or OC1 - given that my goal is not really to race, but more for fitness and weekend length tours, which brand would people recomend? And is it worth the extra $400 to go from the low end model to the upper-level model?
No. Not only is the lower priced model more affordable, the drivetrain is cheaper to service and easier to adjust as it's "only" an 8 speed cluster. The more important question might be if you prefer the feel of the Sora Brifters or the Tiagra+ shape. However--are handgrips worth a $400 difference in price?
I've found many reviews for the Allez but not any for the OC3, though I think someone had mentioned that the Giant did not absorb shocks very well.
Is that spelled correctly or did you mean the Giant OCR3? You have to expect all entry-level (under US$1000) bikes to be somewhat harsh because they are built with heavier tubing and cheaper manufacturing techniques than better bikes. You can soften up the ride somewhat by using wider tires and a lower air pressure.
Is that spelled correctly or did you mean the Giant OCR3? You have to expect all entry-level (under US$1000) bikes to be somewhat harsh because they are built with heavier tubing and cheaper manufacturing techniques than better bikes. You can soften up the ride somewhat by using wider tires and a lower air pressure.
Assuming your frame has clearance for those wider tires.
Also be advised that "new" road bikes are set up, by default, in a rather aggressive riding position with very high gearing. If your goal is to have something that rides smoothly and relatively quickly on pavement, you might be better served with a touring bicycle or a cyclocross bicycle.
Keep your eyes open, and you could still get a deal. I have 2001 Jamis Aurora I got for USD $500 back in 2002--that's ~$560, with inflation. Not as light or aggressive as a pure roadie, but then, neither am I.
Is that spelled correctly or did you mean the Giant OCR3? You have to expect all entry-level (under US$1000) bikes to be somewhat harsh because they are built with heavier tubing and cheaper manufacturing techniques than better bikes. You can soften up the ride somewhat by using wider tires and a lower air pressure.
Assuming your frame has clearance for those wider tires.
Also be advised that "new" road bikes are set up, by default, in a rather aggressive riding position with very high gearing. If your goal is to have something that rides smoothly and relatively quickly on pavement, you might be better served with a touring bicycle or a cyclocross bicycle.
Keep your eyes open, and you could still get a deal. I have 2001 Jamis Aurora I got for USD $500 back in 2002--that's ~$560, with inflation. Not as light or aggressive as a pure roadie, but then, neither am I.
Indeed, that's a much more useful bike for the average rider than the Specialized road bikes at the same price point. Shame you don't see them at any shops--at least around here. For what the OP wants to do, it's a nice match--at least the general concept: ability to mount accessories and take tires of various shapes and volumes as needed. AFAIK, the only "limiting" thing about the Aurora is that you can't mount a tire narrower than a 25mm. Oh, the humanity!
... I've found many reviews for the Allez but not any for the OC3, though I think someone had mentioned that the Giant did not absorb shocks very well. ...
None of them are going to feel like they absorb shocks very well. You will have to learn to ride a little looser than you would on a mountain bike. For me, it is worth it to have a lighter ride, faster acceleration, more weight on the front wheel (more control), etc. I can put up with the rougher ride. I gave my mountain bike to a relative two years ago and have not really been tempted to try another one, unless it might be an old no suspension mountain bike.
