Calling cyclists - need help choosing road bike

[tannet]

I am shopping for a road bike and have narrowed my choices down to 2 bikes.
1. Specialilzed Ruby (2010 Elite or 2011 Comp - depending on what's in stock) or
2. Specialized Dolce Elite
I am new to road biking, but have been mountain biking for about 5-6 years now. I don't plan on riding races any time soon, but I may eventually consider it since I have a friend who does. As of right now, what I see myself doing most of the time is commuting to work and back (~12 miles one way) and recreational riding for enjoyment/exercise. I am leaning towards the Ruby, but I wonder if it's too much bike for me? The Dolce is also a nice bike, and of course, much more affordable. I just wonder if there would be a big enough difference between the 2 bikes with the amount/type of riding I'd be doing. Unfortunately, I don't think any bike shop will allow me to do a 12 mile test ride on each model.

Anyone have any experience with either models? Any input or opinions would be most helpful. Thx!

 

[kateydid05]

I don't have any experience with those two models but my boyfriend just purchased a road bike. He's an avid mountain biker as well. He went with a Trek 1.5 and has so far loved his purchase. He rides it all the time...mostly to and from work. He did a tremendous amount of research before buying it. I think he also was looking at a type of Gary Fisher and a Surly Cross Check. I am sure that doesn't help your search though.

 

[Paul-Antwerp]

I must admit, I do not know the details of either choice, but as an ex-racer, I can definitely suggest putting more emphasis on having the shop set up a comfortable seating-position.

Live long,

 

[MsP]

What is the component set on each? Is the geometry the same?

I suggest getting an independent professional fitting-- there are trained and certified fit specialists who you'll pay $100 to give you a set of numbers(geometry) that work for your body. They're not trying to sell you a particular product line. Then I recommend buying used based off those numbers. The depreciation on high end bikes is huge-- I bought a $6K bike for $1500 after it being used gently for two years.

 

[elrohwen]

What is the component set on each? Is the geometry the same?

I suggest getting an independent professional fitting-- there are trained and certified fit specialists who you'll pay $100 to give you a set of numbers(geometry) that work for your body. They're not trying to sell you a particular product line. Then I recommend buying used based off those numbers. The depreciation on high end bikes is huge-- I bought a $6K bike for $1500 after it being used gently for two years.

This.

Women specific bikes always worry me - I think you're better off getting fitted to see if a bike like that is even what you need. How tall are you? I have much more success with men's bikes and it was confirmed through a fitting that a men's bike is actually what I need, so women's bikes aren't one-size-fits all.

I'm not really familiar with the components on these since I bought my bike years ago, however, I'd recommend the cheaper bike. I don't think a casual rider has any need for a carbon frame, and the cheaper bike looks like the better fit for what you need. My bike is a middle of the line Fuji and it's fantastic. My dad rides far more than I do and has the same bike with the same components. Unless you're interested in racing in the future, you'll have no problems with the Dolce.

 

[iheartscience]

What is the component set on each? Is the geometry the same?

I suggest getting an independent professional fitting-- there are trained and certified fit specialists who you'll pay $100 to give you a set of numbers(geometry) that work for your body. They're not trying to sell you a particular product line. Then I recommend buying used based off those numbers. The depreciation on high end bikes is huge-- I bought a $6K bike for $1500 after it being used gently for two years.

This.

Women specific bikes always worry me - I think you're better off getting fitted to see if a bike like that is even what you need. How tall are you? I have much more success with men's bikes and it was confirmed through a fitting that a men's bike is actually what I need, so women's bikes aren't one-size-fits all.

I'm not really familiar with the components on these since I bought my bike years ago, however, I'd recommend the cheaper bike. I don't think a casual rider has any need for a carbon frame, and the cheaper bike looks like the better fit for what you need. My bike is a middle of the line Fuji and it's fantastic. My dad rides far more than I do and has the same bike with the same components. Unless you're interested in racing in the future, you'll have no problems with the Dolce.

Ditto misspru and Elro. Men's bike are also a better fit for me, and when I got fitted I found out that one of my arms is longer than the other, probably because I separated my shoulder when I was a kid.

I have the Orbea Mitis and I love it but honestly could have gone with a lower end bike for the amount of riding I do. I got a great deal on several years ago, though, and it still rides great. I'd also make sure to get the best seat possible! There are women's specific seats out there which are probably more helpful in overall comfort than a women's specific bike. I'm sure you know that since you mountain bike but figured I'd mention it!

 

[elrohwen]

What is the component set on each? Is the geometry the same?

I suggest getting an independent professional fitting-- there are trained and certified fit specialists who you'll pay $100 to give you a set of numbers(geometry) that work for your body. They're not trying to sell you a particular product line. Then I recommend buying used based off those numbers. The depreciation on high end bikes is huge-- I bought a $6K bike for $1500 after it being used gently for two years.

This.

Women specific bikes always worry me - I think you're better off getting fitted to see if a bike like that is even what you need. How tall are you? I have much more success with men's bikes and it was confirmed through a fitting that a men's bike is actually what I need, so women's bikes aren't one-size-fits all.

I'm not really familiar with the components on these since I bought my bike years ago, however, I'd recommend the cheaper bike. I don't think a casual rider has any need for a carbon frame, and the cheaper bike looks like the better fit for what you need. My bike is a middle of the line Fuji and it's fantastic. My dad rides far more than I do and has the same bike with the same components. Unless you're interested in racing in the future, you'll have no problems with the Dolce.

Ditto misspru and Elro. Men's bike are also a better fit for me, and when I got fitted I found out that one of my arms is longer than the other, probably because I separated my shoulder when I was a kid.

I have the Orbea Mitis and I love it but honestly could have gone with a lower end bike for the amount of riding I do. I got a great deal on several years ago, though, and it still rides great. I'd also make sure to get the best seat possible! There are women's specific seats out there which are probably more helpful in overall comfort than a women's specific bike. I'm sure you know that since you mountain bike but figured I'd mention it!

I love my women specific seat! Good point.

 

[tannet]

Thank you all for your input. You all raise very good points. I am very short...5 ft. I would love to purchase a used bike, but for someone my height, it's very slim pickings out there. I do agree that fit is very important. In fact, I learned that the hard way with my mtn bike. I got a 13" mens bike and the geometry is completely wrong! I didn't realize it until I had spent a lot of time on my bike and started doing more technical trails. Too much of my weight sits on the handlebars making it very difficult for me to ride in terrain with lots of large roots/rocks. I am currently exploring ways to modify my mtn bike to get a better fit. This experience is what has led me to look into the women specific models. I know this doesn't mean it will be an immediate perfect fit, but I'm hoping for something better. So far, from testing out the fit while riding on a 48cm Ruby, it seems to feel right. However, the top tube felt a little too high so I want to try the 44cm model (they didn't have one on hand). Maybe I really should consider getting professionally fitted. But would that really be worth it if I'm not planning on going on 5 hour long rides? Going completely custom is really out of the question for me...it's just not in my budget.

I'm not an expert with bike components so I really can't choose between the bikes based on that. I do know, that the 2011 Ruby Elite has SRAM components vs Shimano on the other models I listed and from what I've read so far...Shimano sounds like it's the way to go. I don't really understand the technical jargon in the stuff I've read, unfortunately. The other reason I was considering the Ruby is because of the weight...it is noticeably lighter than the Dolce.

BTW...I do have a Womens saddle on my mtn bike and I love it too!

 

[elrohwen]

The Ruby has a carbon frame so it will be significantly lighter, but that kind of lightness is meant for racers. I don't think you'll notice a difference in performance for the kind of riding you'll do. I would definitely try to find carbon in the front forks and seat post (you can add a carbon seat post if you want) but a whole frame of carbon fiber isn't necessary.

It seems that the components were all called something different when I got my bike (or I'm just losing my memory), but I do like Shimano overall. Generally Shimano has a cheap, medium, and high end line of components and I would aim for the medium line for the best value for what you want to do. The Dolce seems to have that medium component level, just judging by the price.

Since you are so small, I think a women's bike might actually be great for you. I've been told that they tend to be fitted more towards petite women than tall ones (like myself). There are bike shops in my area that will do a fitting for free, so ask around.

 

[MsP]

Thank you all for your input. You all raise very good points. I am very short...5 ft. I would love to purchase a used bike, but for someone my height, it's very slim pickings out there. I do agree that fit is very important. In fact, I learned that the hard way with my mtn bike. I got a 13" mens bike and the geometry is completely wrong! I didn't realize it until I had spent a lot of time on my bike and started doing more technical trails. Too much of my weight sits on the handlebars making it very difficult for me to ride in terrain with lots of large roots/rocks. I am currently exploring ways to modify my mtn bike to get a better fit. This experience is what has led me to look into the women specific models. I know this doesn't mean it will be an immediate perfect fit, but I'm hoping for something better. So far, from testing out the fit while riding on a 48cm Ruby, it seems to feel right. However, the top tube felt a little too high so I want to try the 44cm model (they didn't have one on hand). Maybe I really should consider getting professionally fitted. But would that really be worth it if I'm not planning on going on 5 hour long rides? Going completely custom is really out of the question for me...it's just not in my budget.

I'm not an expert with bike components so I really can't choose between the bikes based on that. I do know, that the 2011 Ruby Elite has SRAM components vs Shimano on the other models I listed and from what I've read so far...Shimano sounds like it's the way to go. I don't really understand the technical jargon in the stuff I've read, unfortunately. The other reason I was considering the Ruby is because of the weight...it is noticeably lighter than the Dolce.

BTW...I do have a Womens saddle on my mtn bike and I love it too!

In regards to the bolded part, YES. Absolutely. Would you mind sharing your budget? Perhaps then we can help more. I would say don't be discouraged from used because you don't think you'll be able to find the correct size-- bikes are easy and pretty cheap to ship. There are several womens cycling forums that have classifieds, and I've had good luck with ebay.

SRAM and Shimano are competitors (ie brands) not different levels of componentry. It is nearly impossible to say which is better... I have SRAM Red on one bike, and Shimano Dura Ace on the other. Going forward, I'd pick SRAM for future bikes. Better feel to it, IMO. Everyone has a different opinion on this though.

 

[Acrossley]

I wanted to be a cyclists ... really - all good intentions. My husband does tris, but it's not in me. I am selling my Gray Fischer (literally got on three times for approx twenty miles). Aside from not liking to ride I love the bike. It fits well ( I am 5'3) and performs nicely. It's also a beautiful apple green with white trim ... pleasing on the eye. I would recommend it based on my little experience and my husband's recommendation. He helped me select it : )

 

[Aoife]

In my family, most of us ride recreationally, but one of my DD's is a racer. She's pretty tall, and rides a Giant TCR, but virtually all the components that can be customized, she's switched out. On her team a lot of the women ride Specialized, again, with a lot of customization. It's well worth while to get fitted, but it's even better to get fitted by someone who understands and is supportive of women riders. Unfortunately, not every place that sells bikes is, so it's also worth asking around among serious women bikers to find out if there is someplace local that can really do a good job a matching you up with the right bike.

 

[Rockdiamond]

My suggestion would be to concentrate on frame and wheels- both will make the largest difference in how the bike rides.
I ride a LeMond- unfortunately, it seems they're out of business- bought by Trek.
My main attraction to the brand was that they make a nice steel frame.

Generally, low- mid end mountain bikes are aluminum- which is great as it's stiff and light
But with a road bike the goals are different.
Steel adsorbs a lot of the harshness of riding on pavement.
So I'd see if you can find a steel frame.
The highest end bakes are carbon fiber- and it seems the Specialized you're looking at is carbon fiber.
Still see if you can get a ride on both to decide.

Good ridin' to you!!

 

[tannet]

In regards to the bolded part, YES. Absolutely. Would you mind sharing your budget? Perhaps then we can help more. I would say don't be discouraged from used because you don't think you'll be able to find the correct size-- bikes are easy and pretty cheap to ship. There are several womens cycling forums that have classifieds, and I've had good luck with ebay.

SRAM and Shimano are competitors (ie brands) not different levels of componentry. It is nearly impossible to say which is better... I have SRAM Red on one bike, and Shimano Dura Ace on the other. Going forward, I'd pick SRAM for future bikes. Better feel to it, IMO. Everyone has a different opinion on this though.

I really wanted to stay below the $2000 price point (Dolce=$1800), but I'm willing to pay the extra cost for the Ruby ($2100-2600) if it's worth it in the end. I really can't spend any more than that. The Ruby is already at the very top of my budget right now and I would like to make my purchase soon since spring is just around the corner. My boyfriend keeps telling me to look at this as an investment. He thinks I should at least get the base model Ruby. I will likely have this bike the rest of my life. I'm afraid of "settling" for the Dolce because of cost then wanting to upgrade after a few years. I doubt I'd get what I paid if I ever wanted to resell it. Too bad bicycle manufacturers don't offer lifetime upgrades like some Diamond vendors!

 

[Petunia]

Hi Tannet

I am 5'2" and have a Specialized Dolce Elite. I've had it for several years now and am very happy with it. Between spring and fall I put 2000-2500 miles on the bike and just this past year I replaced the wheels. The saddle was replaced two years ago. I still enjoy riding the bike but a new ride is not out of the question.....it's ok to have two

Hope this helps.

 

[tannet]

Hi Tannet

I am 5'2" and have a Specialized Dolce Elite. I've had it for several years now and am very happy with it. Between spring and fall I put 2000-2500 miles on the bike and just this past year I replaced the wheels. The saddle was replaced two years ago. I still enjoy riding the bike but a new ride is not out of the question.....it's ok to have two

Hope this helps.

If I had that much extra play money, I'd buy a 2nd diamond ring before getting a 2nd road bike! But yes, I agree that it's ok to have 2. Thanks for sharing your experience with me. What size bike do you have...the 48cm? I'm wondering if I should seriously go on a hunt to find a 44cm to test ride. I don't know if bike shops will order one in just for me to try out. I could barely stand over the 48cm...the top tube was right in my crotch!

 

[elrohwen]

Are you the type of person who always wants the newest and best of everything? I know a lot of men like this (have to have the new iPhone, iPad, whatever). For people like that I would say get the more expensive bike because you'll be happy owning the top of the line. Can you see yourself regretting the purchase of the mid-grade bike and wishing you had gone all out? It sounds like your bf is thinking that, but it's up to what you would be happy with. In some situations I've wished I spent the extra money for top-of-the-line, but so far I've been very happy with my bike. Some days I dream about the high end components and a European steel frame, but I still love my bike and it does everything I need it to do.

If you don't care about that stuff, go with the cheaper bike and you won't regret it. With the amount and type of riding you're going to do you won't notice the difference between the bikes anyway - the extra money for the nicer one is more for your peace of mind than anything else, so decide if that's worth it to you. Maybe it's like the difference between eye clean and mind clean? Haha

 

[Petunia]

Hi Tannet

I am 5'2" and have a Specialized Dolce Elite. I've had it for several years now and am very happy with it. Between spring and fall I put 2000-2500 miles on the bike and just this past year I replaced the wheels. The saddle was replaced two years ago. I still enjoy riding the bike but a new ride is not out of the question.....it's ok to have two

Hope this helps.

If I had that much extra play money, I'd buy a 2nd diamond ring before getting a 2nd road bike! But yes, I agree that it's ok to have 2. Thanks for sharing your experience with me. What size bike do you have...the 48cm? I'm wondering if I should seriously go on a hunt to find a 44cm to test ride. I don't know if bike shops will order one in just for me to try out. I could barely stand over the 48cm...the top tube was right in my crotch!

I tested both sizes and bought the 48cm. I can stand over the bike without touching the tube but that might be due to the toe clips on the shoes. I can definitely say there is very little room in that area though

 

[Paul-Antwerp]

Comparing bicycles to diamonds, the big difference is that the performance of diamonds depends upon the diamond, while in cycling, it depends largely upon the cyclist.

Granted, the psychological boost of a 'superior' bike may create a performance-improvement at some times.

But in my experience, I would spend a little less on the bike, while using the savings for a professional fitting. It will improve the rider's efficiency, while the improved handling will also have a psychological impact.

In my racing days (the 80's), we only had steel frames and I still raced with real toeclips, imagine. For many years, I had raced on a Gios-Torino with Shimano-gear, but when I switched to a Colnago with Campagnolo-gear, it was not the gear that made the huge difference. The fit was such that the slightly longer top-tube of the Colnago fitted me a lot better, giving me a much more relaxed and efficient ride. And I probably won more races on the Colnago, because of the psychological advantage and the better fit of man and machine allowing me to be more strategic in the race.

Live long,

 

[swimmer]

Dittoing RD on the frame considerations. If you are mostly using a bike to commute, then what will your ride be like? carbon fiber is not as comfy in absorbing the bumps and shocks. If you will be on a smoothly paved surface this is totally irrelevant. But I see lots of people commuting on bikes they thought they might race on but really they commute much more on them. I live in an area with terrible roads so I ride a steel frame and yeah, a cf for riding with friends who do race. You might want to check out independent fabrication, they make some very nice small frames. The online marketplaces for bikes are really impressive. There are many female racers out there that you could get a gently used frame off of and then have it built up, bike shop labor is not that spendy, in the long run a used frame could ensure that you have your perfect fit and come in under 2k.

 

[tannet]

I really appreciate everyone's feedback. I just wonder now if I'm putting too much thought into a mostly commuter bike. However, I would like to look into getting professionally fitted. Can anyone recommend a person/place in the Silicon Valley, CA area?

 

[luv2sparkle]

I don't know of any specific one in your area but I would go into your bike shops and ask. My husband had his fit done by a guy
in Santa Monica, that was kinda well known in that area. I could ask him for the name, if you would like, and you can give him
a call and find out if he knows of anyone in central/northern CA. (He is at work right now, and I can't reach him).