Roadbike advice needed for UK friend

[GBguy]

Hi guys

 

I have a mate in England who is looking for a roadbike under L500. I know it's a bit bizarre asking for advice on a South African forum but...

 

I've copied his shortlist below. Any thoughts would be most welcome:

 

I’ve worked on a £500 budget:

Specialised Allez – Seems to be the best bike in this price bracket. RRP is c.£600, but you can buy a 2011 model for £500 at Freeborn cycles.

Giant Defy 4 – Spec the same as the Specialised, slightly heavier. RRP is c.£550, but again you can get a 2011 model for £420 from Ashcycles

There are then very similar bikes like Trek 1.1, Raleigh Airlight 100 and GT GTR Series 5, but specs slightly different or pricing not as a competitive

There is then my budget option, which seems to have great write ups, similar spec to the Specialised and Giant: B’Twin Triban 3 – Sold by Decathlon sports (French company with a few stores in the UK ). As I said spec is the same as above, but price tag is £299.99.

Thanks!

[Cyclewizz]

If you add the specs to the list it will make it much easier to respond.

[Eugene]

Tell your mate to look into the "Bike to work" program. If you are employed, you are able, through various VAT and PAYE and government incentives, to get a 55% discount on a new bike. You have to be employed by a company who is part of the scheme (most are) and have to buy from a shop that is registered with the scheme.

 

I can't really comment on the choices above as I don't know much about them, except Specialized is regarded as one of the best brands in the world for a reason.