New bike (KTM) - advice

Myksyk

Hi guys ... Looking to get into road cycling for fitness. Used to run but this looks like the better option now that Im an old fart! Have a nice bike shop at the end of my road and it makes sense to deal there if I can get a good quality bike. Basically I'd like to get a decent bike thru the bike to work scheme even tho I'm a beginner. I've been with them today and would like some feedback on the bike I've been looking at. It's a KTM Strada 2000 ( rrp €1300 deal -€1150). 105 groupset. Aluminium frame and carbon fork. Any experience people have of this model or the KTM make would be great to hear.

AverageJoe82

hi ya i recently got the same bike few months back and its a very good bike, im having no problems so far so would recomend it to anyone, only problem is white is a bastard to keep clean

Myksyk

As a matter of interest what size frame did you get. On first impressions the guy in the shop, who was very helpful, said the 57 frame would fit me. However I'm about 5 foot 10 with a 31 inch inseam and some of the guys on here were talking about a 55 inch frame for those measurements.

AverageJoe82

well im less then 5mm off 6ft and i got a 57cm frame and its perfect for me, and i would not have a clue what size frame would suite you, but there is loads of caluators online

Icyseanfitz

nice bikes but i wouldnt be taking a 57 at your height, id go with a 55, im 6 and i take a 56 frame

Mcofferon

Hi Myksyk

I have the Strada 2000 too. Only a week old at this stage. As it's my first road bike, i've nothing to reference it too. I love it to bits. Seems very light, super precise, very smooth gear change. Standard of finish is great and for the money you just cant argue with it. There are cheeper mail order options from Canyon etc with pretty much the same spec, but I want the backup of a local Bike shop for my first Road bike.

Size wise, I'm 5'9.5" with a 30" inside leg and the 55cm seems spot on for me.

The only down side is the flies - I'm grinning all the time when riding now and they get stuck in my teeth:)

Mike

Esroh

I have the 3000 which is same bike with upgraded components and I love it.
Started on a T**k(cannot admit it in public). Then went felt Z series with the relaxed geometry.
Find the KTM very comfortable . I am 6'4" and have a 36 inside leg. Frame is 59.
Frame size can be a very personal thing.

Quite a few of the club have bought the KTMs and have heard nothing but praise

Myksyk

Thinking now of getting the Strada 3500 full carbon model for the extra €350 while I can get the bike to work deal. Am I mad? Or will I be glad I did in 6 months time.

sav1980

I have a strada 3000 and I love it! It's my first road bike and its not carbon but it is super light, full ultegra too so gear changes are super smooth. My 2nd bike will have a lot to live up to!!

kuro_man

Myksyk wrote: »

Thinking now of getting the Strada 3500 full carbon model for the extra €350 while I can get the bike to work deal. Am I mad? Or will I be glad I did in 6 months time.

you could also use the €350 to upgrade the wheels, the 501's are fine but cheap & heavy. For that kind of money you could add mavic kryism elites or shimano RS80's etc. Ask the bike shop for upgrade options.

Icyseanfitz

the 3500 is a great bike for the money, what price are you been given? 1450? if so id take it

Mcofferon

Out of interest,

The 2013 catalogue (Online http://www.ktm-bikes.at/road/road/index.php?lang=EN) looks like they have discontinued the Ultegra equiped 3000. The 105 spec'd 3500 comes in at nearly a kilo lighter than the 2000 which itself only weighs 9.1kg.

That may mean that the remaining 3000's are going at silly prices?

Myksyk

Bought the KTM Strada 3500 today. Went out on a bike tonight for the first time in about 25 years. Great fun ... At least until I got knackered. Did 10 miles just trying to get used to the clipless pedals, gears etc. Harder/firmer ride than I expected but also surprised at the speed you could get up with some effort. Overall great to get my heart and lungs working. Legs wobbly for a little while after I got off but delighted overall.

Mcofferon

Congrats.

Sure do get a lot of bike for your money with KTM.

Here's my pride and joy
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcofferon/7896386946/in/photostream

Icyseanfitz

congrats hope you enjoy it

Myksyk

Thanks for the advice and good wishes guys. Next question ... very important one ... how bad does this ar$e ache get and how long does it take to start fading out?!! Can't imagine sitting on that godforsaken saddle again this evening!!

kuro_man

Contrats on the bike.

You need to train your rear, so keep mileage low and take a couple of days off now and again. In a week or two, you should be fine. You may want to change the saddle anyway, but no point doing it now.