Advice on buying first full-carbon bike

[shnoodle]

Hello Hubbers,

 

 

 

I'm looking into replacing my current steed to a full carbon - whilst trying to keep my wallet from disintegrating... I currently ride:

 

 

 

Giant TCR Hybrid (2004 I think)

 

Veloce Groupset

 

Hand-build wheels - Chorus hubs and Open Pro 2 Rims

 

 

 

I've been riding it for about 5 years, and it's served me really well, but I think it's now time... I've looked at the following:

 

 

 

Giant TCR Advanced 2

 

Merida Scultura 905/7

 

Felt F4

 

Cube Agree GTC Pro/Race/SL

 

 

 

I'm quite keen on the compact geometry, so I'm not entirely sold on the Felt. The Giant is a bit more pricey, but I've always loved their rides. Haven't ridden the Merida or Cube, but heard really good things about both.

 

 

 

I'm very keen to look into the Cube GTC Race (on CRC http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=44401). I'm not sure if it's going to be coming into the country or not. I know the SL and Pro should be. Anyway... VAT/Import duties/etc. aside, does anyone have any opinion on them? I'm a tad concerned about the Race's wheelset (Easton Vista SL), but other than that, they look awesome! And good value-for-money.

 

 

 

So, I'm asking for any comments on the selection (or anything else I could consider in the same kind of range - full carbon, ultegra/chorus). And I think I'd rather get a new bike over a 2nd hand one.

 

 

 

(I'm a B group Argus rider... to give an indication of the bike's usage...)

 

 

 

Thanks!

[Jon0]

i have a tcr advanced 2 frame up for sale if you feel the need =)

its compact geometry as with giants......bike speaks for itself and all those who have ridden it will agree =)

p.m me if intrested....

[shnoodle]

PM'd.

 

 

 

But just saw this:

 

 

 

https://www.bikehub.co.za/forum_posts.asp?TID=68374

 

 

 

The same frame? If so, I think it'll be too small (M). I'm looking for a M/L in the Giant range.