I currently have a hybrid and decided it was about time I got some speed up on those flat roads and to start looking as nifty and professional as those road cyclists I see hurtling around the Ricmond Park circuits.
Firstly, I needed to make a list of factors to consider:
- Budget
- New or second-hand
- Make
- Components
Having looked extensively on the internet and at second-hand websites I decided a new road bike was for me....mainly because I couldn't find anything suitable on ebay, gum tree or pre-loved and because I imagine it would be a little like buying someone elses already worn-in shoes. I feel a bike is unique to it's owner.
Now where do I stand on the make? Scott, Specialized, Felt, Trek, Giant.....all of which have some cracking bikes for around the £600 mark. So I read reviews, saught advice from cycle shops and all said the only way to compare makes is to get on and test ride. So I decided to pop into Evans Cycles and test ride the Pinnacle Dolomite Two and thoroughly enjoyed it. Smooth ride, comfortable reach and for the finishing touch it's complete with Tiagra gears(one up from Sora).
Unfortunately, I have been slightly deterred by some not so complimentary reviews online. (I value cyclists' opinions). So decided I needed a comparison. Enter the Felt Z95 2012 (pictured below-courtesy of www.evanscycles.com). I shall be test riding this at the end of the month (once in stock) so will keep you posted on my progress. Stef's road bike quest continues.....
