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    Need help choosing my first road bike

    I’m pretty new to biking and I’m trying to pick up a solid first road bike. I want something reliable that I can learn on now, but also something I can use as I get into longer rides, local races, triathlons, and eventually an Ironman down the line.

    I know most of these are a bit older, but in my local market these are the best-priced options I’ve found compared to everything else listed right now.

    Here are the options + prices I’ve already negotiated so these would be the prices:

    • 2021 Trek Domane AL 2 (aluminum) — Shimano Claris — $450
    • 2011/2012 Giant Defy Advanced 1 (carbon) — Ultegra 6700 w/ SRAM Force rim break — $600
    • 2012 Fuji Supreme (carbon) — Shimano 105 — $500
    • 2012 Cannondale SuperSix (carbon) — SRAM Apex — $750

    Appreciate any advice. Thank you in advance!

    by ishjohn_

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    4 Comments

    1. kn0wph33r on

      I’d go with the giant. That’s a good groupset and a solid frame set. Just make sure the seat mast is adjustable enough to fit you.

      That said, my favorite from a perspective race frame is the Cannonade, but I don’t love the Apex grouppo.

    2. Sohnich on

      Are these all the same frame sizes? Trek looks a lot bigger, but maybe the photo is just at an awkward angle…

      Anyways, I think they are all pretty fine choices for getting started. The Trek is aluminum so a little heavier but those frames are a lot more durable and I had my fair share of accidental crashes my first year of riding 🙂

      Personally I think the cannondale would be my pick but I understand that’s the most expensive option. The drivetrain on the Trek is pretty limited if you eventually want to do racing; it has fewer gears (and buying a new drivetrain is comparable to the price of the bike!) so I’d take the Giant if the cannondale price is too steep. I know it’s more expensive than the Fuji but it already has pedals you need for racing and better drivetrain all for $100.

      Again I would double check frame sizes because a poorly fit frame = discomfort = injuries AND slower riding

    4. Po0rYorick on

      Giant for me. Best group set of the bunch and already has clipped pedals. Looks pretty sharp to boot.

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