First time poster;
I'm replacing/upgrading my Cannondale Synapse 6 purchased in 2012. Has served me well, but maintenance and replacement parts are piling up and determined it's probably time to just replace entirely. Especially since my other-half is approving of the purchase (with the understanding the new bike will hopefully go another 10 years with proper care/maintenance)
Looking for a comparable unloaded weight ~20-23 lbs, primarily road bike. Would be great if it could handle some crushed gravel, but primarily see this replacing a fitness bike. I have a RadMission that can handle my more social rides that more frequently encounter gravel/unpaved paths.
I haven't shopped the market since buying my bike in 2012; lots of options from the familiar names –Cannondale, Specialized, Trek– but also seeing lots of options from names I'm less familiar with like Ceravelo, Canyon, Norco, Felt, and others.
Not sure if I should stick with an aluminum frame or get a carbon frame. My perspective is that everything is going to feel like an upgrade since the old steed had rim brakes, external wiring; generally just old. Much like going from my 2009 Ford Focus to my 2023 Toyota Corolla; whole new world since entry level models have improved so much.
Height: 5'9"
Inseam: 31-31.5"
Budget: <$2,500
Current Bike Size: 54cm
Currently eyeing:
– REI Cannondale Topstone Carbon 4
– The interest may just be because of availabity; has a note for additional 10% off in store.
– Canyon Ultimate CF SL 7
– Previous year model in the outlet. Seems like a significant upgrade: aluminum to carbon.
– Canyon Inflite CF SL 5
– Canyon Grizl CF SL 6 AXS
– Canyon Grail CF SL 7
– Felt VR Advanced 105 Carbon Endurance All-Road Bike Shimano 105 Di2
– Concerned I'm too big for a 51cm bike; no LBS that could fit me for a Felt; but saw it recommended in another thread as I was researching; seems like a really good deal that could go really bad if it doesn't fit properly
Planning to go to a few of my LBS to get a feel for different things; but not afraid to snag an online deal if pointed in the right direction.
by RvrCtyGnr