Trek 2.3 or Forme longcliffe 2.0

lastbuilders

Hi All,

I am looking to get my first bike on the BTW scheme. I have been doing some research and shopping around and am considering these two bikes and wanted so see members opinions on them?

The Forme is a less known brand but has better value for money than the 2.3 in my view.

The Forme costs less and my budget is tight at about the BTW limit but I have heard you should get the best bike you can from a friend and on some forums posts so I am stuck on the fence at the moment as I could try and stretch to get the 2.3 but at 250 euros more than the Forme it is hard for me to justify it. I know the Forme has better tyres but the 2.3 has better groupset and would be easier to sell if I don't get into cycling.

Any feedback appreciated.

Lastbuilders

nilhg

Is this the Forme?

http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/ie/en/forme-longcliffe-2-2013/rp-prod91374

Personally I wouldn't be keen on a lot of the components used there, probably there isn't anything wrong with the Microshift, FSA or Forme shifters, brakes or chainset but I'd prefer to get all Shimano at that price point.

I have a aluminium Trek (2.5 Alpha) which is pretty much the same model as theone you are looking at (ultegra v 105) and it's been pretty much bombproof for me, I've 11k+ km on it since April 13.

If you can afford the extra than it'll be momey well spent but if not or if you aren't going to put up the miles I'm sure the Forme would be fine.

lastbuilders

Hi nilhg,

Thanks for the feedback. That is the bike ok. I know it is not all Shimano but in terms of value for money the Forme seems the best deal however I just have a leaning to the 2.3, probably because it is a more established brand. The shop where I saw the bikes have said the Microshift components have been very reliable for them. While it is not my local shop I know a few people who deal with them regularly without any problems.

In terms of miles this is my first venture into cycling so they would not be huge starting off.

Lastbuilders

ZiabR

With the BTW Scheme having a max of 1000 euro I presume that you are putting a good chunk of money towards the bike yourself if you are going for a 2.3. Is is a Madone or Domane 2.3? And is it a 2012 or 2013 model?

What price are you getting the 2.3 for? I think the cheapest I saw them for was 1350-1400 euro, would I be right?

lastbuilders

Hi logik,

The quote I got is for about 1250 and is the green 2013 Madone model.

Lastbuilders

ZiabR

Nice price, that would be my pick. I have a Trek myself and love it.

All the best with it.

lastbuilders

Hi logik,

The Trek is good ok but I don't think it is worth the extra 300 euros though. Especially as this will be mostly extra over the BTW limit. Does anyone here have any experience with Forme bikes?

Lastbuilders