Buying a road bike

[Abd7]

Hey

 

I've been getting into road cycling recently and its time for me to buy a new bike.

 

I like the 2011 Merida road race 903-18 (black n green) , got quoted R7.8k for it from one shop waiting for feedback from others.

 

Before I buy it, wondering whats the opinion of you more knowledgeable guys on this bike?

Any other bikes in this range that you would recommend over it value for money wise?? Perhaps with a 105 groupset opposed to the tiagra this comes with. I dont mind the tiagra, but perhaps the 105 is a better option in the long run when i become more serious about cycling.

 

Not looking to spend too much for a carbon frame and the like, this is my first road bike.

 

Thanks

Edited October 24, 2010 by SkyW

[David Marshall]

Merida makes good light road bikes at a reasonable price. The Tiagra groupset is great until it is time to sell, then you will wish you had a 105 or Ultegra. I have a 2006 904 with a 105 groupset and I am still very happy with it. Done about 6000km and would not dream of parting with it. Have had a few other makes that I have been happy to let go. Good luck with your new bike!

[Wrigs]

Hi SkyW,

 

If youre not in a super hurry you may want to scan the classifieds on TheHubSA for a week or so - you are likely to get much more for your R8k.

 

I managed to put together R70k of Cervelo kit for around R25k - i know thats not what you are wanting to spend but it gives you an indication of what kind of deals you could get if you are patient.

 

You may also want to drop @MadMikeX a pm (personal message) - he often has a great range of bikes available and they are always pristine.

 

Good luck

[Cuppa Bru]

Hi SkyW,

 

If youre not in a super hurry you may want to scan the classifieds on TheHubSA for a week or so - you are likely to get much more for your R8k.

 

I managed to put together R70k of Cervelo kit for around R25k - i know thats not what you are wanting to spend but it gives you an indication of what kind of deals you could get if you are patient.

 

You may also want to drop @MadMikeX a pm (personal message) - he often has a great range of bikes available and they are always pristine.

 

Good luck

 

 

Please post a link to your Cerevelo post. Might be time to burn some plastic.

[Abd7]

hmmm interesting. I shall follow the classifieds closely for a while , thanks.

 

If nothing turns up though, will probably end up going for the Merida. Also been quoted for a Scott speedster s40 and giant tcr 2 for 7.2k and 8.8k respectively.