Newbie bike question

stown2012

Hi all hows it going,

Have finally decided to take d plunge and buy a road bike ( this forum has really developed my knowledge and interest!!) . I have decided to buy local and decided on either the specialized allez compact 2013 model for €750 or the allez secteur triple 2013 for €900.. reviews online seem to favour the allez what would be ye'r preference. I would be very fit aerobically as I play gaa to a good level although I know this may be of little importance. I am also 6'3 and would be picking the 61cm frames.

Thanks for any replies!!

Icyseanfitz

in my opinion a 61 is too big for you, id go with a 58 or close to it, as for the two bikes, an allez is more race orientated and the secteur would be more of a tourer, personally id go for the allez

stown2012

thanks for d reply,

will d composite gears cause me much trouble on climbs? or does it really matter?

youtheman

stown2012 wrote: »

thanks for d reply,

will d composite gears cause me much trouble on climbs? or does it really matter?

I presume you mean 'compact' gears. The answer is 'No'. Suggest you go for a compact (which is 50/34 by definition - on the front) and then an 11/28 cassette on the back and you'll get up any hill on this planet.

1Anon

I'm 6' 3" and have an entry level Allez double with shimano 2300. It's a decent bike and comfortable on long spins. For me the 58.5 frame fits perfectly. If you happen to be north Dublin you'd be welcome to take a look although I'm sure the bike shop will have different sizes for you to try. Mine has a standard double (53-39 at the front with 12-25 cassette) and any problems getting up hills are generally due to me and not the bike, although I do think the compact in the current model would be better for climbing. The only real advice I have is to go up the Allez range if you can possibly stretch to it to get better wheels and groupset. Although 2300 is perfectly functional, it's not great. Mind you, if I'm perfectly honest, for the price of the higher spec models, I'd just go straight for a Canyon Roadlite 6 for €999 which has a 105 groupset and Mavic Askium wheels with Continental GP4000 tyres.

jimbeambright

Hey

which LBS did you come across the specialised allez for 750? I was looking for that bike myself based on the review bikeradar gave it, that price seems really good.

Cheers

James201213

i am considering the allez compact 2012 also as a first time road bike . seems to be the best for the price range although my knowledge on bikes is extremely limited