I'm looking to buy a beginner bike which will be mainly used for relatively short 4-6 mile (7-10 km) commutes as well as for zone 2 cardio lasting up to 1-2 hours. I imagine 95-99% of my riding will be on paved surfaces. This will be my first adult bike. I am buying new because I have absolutely no faith in my ability to discern the condition of a used bike and also because I don't want to go through a ton of listings. I am 5'6" (167 cm) which further limits my options. My local bike stores primarily carry Giant and Specialized. Price point is 1-2k USD. Unfortunately, stock is very limited right now. I've narrowed down my options to the Giant Contend AR3, Specialized Allez, and Specialized Allez Sport. The regular Giant Contend isn't available in my size anywhere nearby. Which would make the most sense for me? What does the Sport give me over the regular Allez? Are there any other options that I've missed? Thank you.
https://www.giant-bicycles.com/us/contend-ar-3-2025
https://www.bicyclegaragefremont.com/product/specialized-allez-930808-1.htm
https://www.bicyclegaragefremont.com/product/specialized-allez-sport-868651-1.htm
by bballtester
1 Comment
I believe the differences between the Allez and Allez Sport is the Sport has hydraulic brakes and 2×10 drive train while the Allex is mech brakes and 2×8. Someone can correct me if I’m wrong on this. I don’t know anything about the Giant. Here is a write up on the Allez Sport that does a deep dive. I don’t think it’s behind their paywall. Let me know if you cannot read it. [https://escapecollective.com/2024-specialized-allez-sport-review-entry-level-done-right/](https://escapecollective.com/2024-specialized-allez-sport-review-entry-level-done-right/)