New road bike advice

[Mtberct]

Hi guys. I've been a mountain biking for just over a year now and love the sport. I never thought I would enjoy road cycling but I recently joined a triathlon club, and on training rides, I have realised how awesome it really is. Just when I thought I had done all the mtb upgrades possible and the expenses were over....I became hooked on road cycling.

 

Now the dilemma. I didn't really budget for a road bike, but I started the search anyway. I have come to realise that it's just as complicating as mtbing was to begin with. I have a maximum of 14k for a bike. (would like to spend less if possible). I was leaning towards a cheaper bike, but I hear mixed reviews on components/frames etc, and where to spend your money. Basically, I am confused and need some help. To give some insight, I ride a full xt mtb, if that helps to compare to road groupsets. I am looking for a bike to ride twice a week (at the moment) but I want to ride some road races so mustn't be triathlon specific. Any help from the roadies will be much appreciated. Thanks guys

[Jakkals.]

That's more than enough for a descend bike. Look for the following specs and u will be happy for a long time. Carbon bike(nowadays all frames come from China and no real difference other than branding and the mold) shimano 105 groupset, cheap wheels. Spend the rest on a set of race wheels of 50mm deep and u won't be sorry.

[Helpmytrap]

Back in 2009 I was in the same dilemma, and landed up going for a new frame but 2nd hand components.

Got an allu frame: Bianchi EV4 with Shimano Dura Ace groupo. I think it's at 7.5kg max (not to sure) and I picked it up for R16000 at Northcliffe Cycles including all the parts.

I know it's more than 14k but this type of route is also available.

[Mtberct]

Thanks guys. I appreciate the help. I will look on the hub as well

[jcza]

Had the same dilemma some months back. Ended up buying the axis AR20 with full 105 incl. pedals for R13k. Very happy with it.

[Rich Stan]

I bought a merida race lite 904 with 105, was around R12.5k. Great bike, and the 105 is a nice groupset in my opinion.

[Cav']

Cannondale - Caad or Synapse with 105

[Boobear]

Look 4 the right size frame on the hub plenty of descent ones around bargain with the guys then build an ultegra groupo its same spec as xt but 105 is great as well plenty guys selling bits and pieces you can even use some mountain bike parts if you have spare I have seen a 32t on a road bike

[Trance Dance]

I had a similar problem, ended up blowing R750 on an '84 panasonic, which I love! As the man said, 'its not about the bike, its about how much juice is in the tank'.

[Skuzzi]

PM sent! Contact me.

[EZRider]

CAAD 10 with 105. I like the CAAD so much I traded my carbon bike for one. It's as light and stiffer than any carbon bike in your budget.

[Mtberct]

Thanks guys appreciate it.

[Sarge]

Hi TZmtb,

I agree with you. CAAD10 - good choice. The 2013 range is starting to come into the country now. Appear to be the same as last year but with new colour scheme.

Good luck

Sarge.