[Closed] Anyone have a Road Bike?

It's actually in the forum rules that we only talk about mountain bikes 😉

Seriously though, I prefer the Merlin. Nicer looking imo, full 105 drive train ( i think) instead of the 105 tiagra mix. 11 speed over 10 too.

I'm also looking for something similar at the moment. I did a basic bike fit which gave me some target bike dimensions to look for.

http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/m7b4s6p5923/GIANT-DEFY-2-2015

I reckon there's as many, if not more, roadies on here as mtbers...

They're both decent bikes. A lot of serious roadies have the Triban as their winter bike because it's good enough for their purposes but cheap enough that they don't mind it getting trashed by crap weather/salt on roads etc.
As a bike commuter myself I'd suggest getting a bike with the capacity to take mudguards and a rack. After a while arriving at work covered in road spray from the wheels, and with a sweaty back from a rucksack, gets a bit old..
Have to say that the Merlin looks a steal. One of the massive compromises on cheap (& even not so cheap) road bikes is the wheels. I'd take a decent set of wheels over a slightly better groupset any day. You'd be happy with the Fulcrum wheels on a £1500 bike, let alone a £500. On the downside it really is set up as a racer, so steep angles (quick, but harsh) & no rack/mudguards

This is my bike. Beautiful piece of kit. Comes with mudguards and capacity to take up to 28mm tyres (more comfort). Can take rack as well. Again, the choice of many serious roadies for winter/training bike

[url= http://www.3654bikes.co.uk/K-BIKE-T2-51-K.html ]Kinesis Racelight[/url]

Also worth looking at the Ribble 7005. Again very popular with roadies. They have a fairly unique bike builder feature on their site. You can get it with full 10spd Tiara group, Magic Aksium wheels (decent entry level) & continental gatorskin tyres (great compromise on grip, protection, longevity and rolling resistance) for £650. Great price..

[url= http://www.ribblecycles.co.uk/ribble-7005-winter-ribble/ ]Ribble 7005[/url]

The Triban 540 has excellent tyre clearance and can take decent width tyres and full guards. A big plus if you plan or year round riding or any light gnarmac.

My wife has the Triban and I would buy one myself without hesitation. Ludicrously good for 600. Road bikes are ace, assuming you have decent roads to ride on!

Anyone here have a road bike?! You might as well ask 'anyone here middle-aged, work in IT and drive an Audi?'*

Have you ridden road bike much/at all before? If not, be wary of buying online as you might end up with something that doesn't fit you well. Have a chat with your LBS and see what they'll do you for that price. They'll also be able to make sure it will take mudguards, which will make riding it to work much more pleasant.

*for the record I fit none of these criteria although slipping dangerously close to the lower bounds of middle age

Also have a look at the Boardman's at Halfords - last time i was in (OK, flame me but I needed a tube at short notice) they had a few clearance ones. I have a Boardman CX myself, as others have said will take bigger tyres and a mudguards for the commute / winter, I enjoy being able to gravel road it as well, geometry isn't quite as much of a shock compared to an out and out road bike, and while it is heavier I can keep up on the club run easily enough.

Plus, if you join British cycling (about £15 iirc) then you can get 10% off with your card at Halfords.

Road bikes...

[img] [/img]

No road bikes here 🙂

wow, not so long ago, you had to pay a grand for a bike with 105. They are both impressive deals.

I'd go with the merlin, a bit cheaper, a nice company to support, and the LG version of the Fulcrum wheels, so a little wider rim.

The fact you're also getting shoes and pedals is a great bonus!

ogden - Member
I don't know if its a forbidden subject round these parts lol

It is forbidden yes lol
You will be sent to the naughty corner for suggesting such incomprehensible bike style choices lol
Fat Bikes are where its at lol
You can only buy a disc equipped road bike now, all rim braked bikes have been confiscated lol

HTH
lol

First question is what sort of riding do you want to do? General training in foul weather? Ride some sportives? Try racing? Road bikes come in almost as many flavours as mtbs, and each has their merits.

Of the two, the triban is a better all rounder, with room for mudguards. The Merlin is a "full-on" race bike with classic geometry, both are however excellent value.

The Giant Defy# gets a LOT of love here because it is an accomplished "first" road bike that is a perfect compromise between more comfortable, endurance riding, and full on race bike - indeed a Defy won the prestigious Paris Roubaix classic last year. The bike linked to at Pauls Cycles has the same race-winning geometry.

For your budget, I'd pick the Merlin for me, but the Defy is a better choice for a first bike.

I don't have a road bike btw. I have five 😳

#Think of it as the road equivalent of a Giant Anthem. Accomplished at most things and more bike than most people will need.

Commuting without full mud guards is pretty horrible. Unless I'm buying a road bike solely for Sundays in summer (and that's what my mountain bike is for) then space and eyelets for mudguards is a must.

Will the bike be kept inside at work or locked outside?

Hello thanks for the responses! It'll mainly be used for commuting from my house in the north York moors to the closest town so a few hills involved, it's about 8-9 miles and mainly a dry day use and general fitness rides so nothing serious.

The merlin seems like a brilliant spec for the money and it's cheaper than the btwin plus the free shoes and pedals thrown it are like icing on the cake

But the btwin is probably better geometry and all the necessary mounts for mud guards but cost more less spec and a new model is coming in July

Being a Yorkshire man I like to get the most for my money

That merlin looks great and it's an amazingly good deal. Merlin is a great shop to deal with too. Do you live near it? If not then the decathlon might be better as you get to actually try it. Tribans always get great reviews, I've seen them in the flesh and they look good too. Also, the triban is easy to fit mudguards and a rack too, which might appeal if you're using it as a commuter

So,

Purely commuter = Triban

Sunday club runs too= Merlin

My heads saying Triban makes more sense but there's something saying go get the merlin lol

Both excellent bikes. But merlin wins especially with shoes and pedals thrown in.
Just check decathlon have stock. Looked at a rockier 560 for the missus and we had to get a display model as their was none in stock.

from a quick look I'd go for the merlin for a road bike and the Btwin as a commuter. Because:

As a bike commuter myself I'd suggest getting a bike with the capacity to take mudguards and a rack.

Merlin is a great Spec for the money, but as said by others, the Defy is reputably one of the comfiest road bikes around, so my money would go there.

I have had a few harsh road frames, but got a Composite Defy in 2012, which I sold last week, replacing with a 2016 one. My 13 yr old son has just started road riding, on a Defy 5. Can't see past them myself 🙂

When you throw the price of pedals and shoes on the giant it works out same price as the merlin but less spec.

My problem is I can't really get anywhere to try any of them out.

I agree - Giant Defy is the go-to choice.
My Defy 1 is very comfortable (certainly more compliant that the 2016 Arkose 3 I've been riding since Christmas)

I did the Ride London 100 on my Defy last summer, and it certainly wasn't the bike that was lacking towards the end...

My Defy 1 is very comfortable (certainly more compliant that the 2016 Arkose 3 I've been riding since Christmas)

my 2012 Defy Composite 1, on 25c tyres, was every bit as compliant and comfy on road rides as my steel Croix De Fer 30 on 35c rubber

Do you know what frame size you'd need?

I've not ridden either so can't comment but people on here might be able to advise re geometry etc

I'm 5.9 so usually a medium sized frame. I'm still completely torn on what to do

I'm 5.9 so usually a medium sized frame.

If it's going to be a Giant, you might be a Medium, or you might be a Medium/Large. Really depends on your body dimensions, so a trip to a Giant dealer is in order!

You'd be a M on a Giant...probably. M/L seem to fit 5'11"ish and above.

The Merlin might be too big for you too with a 55cm toptube.

If you're between sizes, size down.

Try swinging a leg over the small and medium Triban, see what feels better.

We're all different though as I'm 5'10.5" and a 56 is too big so I've just gone to a medium Giant Defy.

Squin, I've done fits for people shorter than 5'11" on M/L frames. Really depends on the dimensions, leg/body/arm length. On some, a M/L is a better fit with a shorter stem, for example. On others, a M with a longer stem and a bit more layback on the post.

I wouldn't disagree. Some people will be the opposite to me. I've got a shorter torso, plus at 40+ and not too flexible I prefer a bit les stretched.

I think most 'average' 5'9" would be a M Giant, but what's average?

This doesn't have mounts but I guess I could build one up

https://www.merlincycles.com/gianni-motta-primo-road-frame-58910.html?utm_source=social&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=social-11

Look at the price

Look at the price

Look at the geometry! Assuming the geo chart is correct, and they are horizontal top tube measurements, they are very very short.

Also no mech hanger, so factor that.

Just get whatever Defy best fits you and your budget. Bit over budget but the Defy 2 at 750 with the new Tiagra looks a super bike for the money.

I recently bought a Cannondale Synapse.

http://www.leisurelakesbikes.com/p/18051/cannondale-synapse-tiagra-disc-6-road-racing-bike-2015-sale

I offered £600 as Evans are selling at £636 and they accepted. I also fitted SKS chromoplastic p35 mudguards.
Only 56cm frames available now which may be a little big for you so worth trying for size somewhere.

http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item.view&id=291705114937&alt=web

defy 0 frame could be a good place to start?

http://www.mangobikes.co.uk/bikes/point-r-road/point-r-shimano-tiagra24

Mango Point R Tiagra £500. They also offer an upgrades wheel set for +£70

Cool colours too..

my 2012 Defy Composite 1, on 25c tyres, was every bit as compliant and comfy on road rides as my steel Croix De Fer 30 on 35c rubber

I'd dispute that iainc. I have a a Defy advanced on 25mm tyres and a Croix de Fer on 35mm. The Defy is not every bit as compliant and comfy as the the Croix de Fer it's head and shoulders better. 🙂

[quote> http://www.mangobikes.co.uk/bikes/point-r-road/point-r-shimano-tiagra24

Mango Point R Tiagra £500. They also offer an upgrades wheel set for +£70

Cool colours too..

Huge jumps in sizes on those Mango bikes!

I looked at the mango point r and read through loads of forum posts about it and lots of people saying lots of corner cutting with components

Can get a frame for £240 though

2016 Giant Defy 0 Frame, Fork, Headset, Stem, Bars, Steatpost and saddle £260 on ebay

Shimano 105 5800 11 Speed Groupset Black - £300 - Merlincycles

Giant P-R2 Wheels £70 - ebay or an upgrade?

£630 minus cables, grip tape, pedels

Seems quite a compelling idea? decent bang for my buck?

I think that sounds pretty decent as you'll have a full 105 groupset for that money.

Giant P-R2 Wheels £70 - ebay or an upgrade?

Otherwise a very sound choice. What size do you think you need?

There's nothing wrong with the Giant wheels (have them on Teen2's Defy) but that's because I have his Ksyriums on my winter Defy 😈 (And they were £200 off the classifieds here).

105 is absolutely excellent. For a first road bike, this would be a great choice. I'm racing my nice Defy at the weekend, it really doesn't feel so much different to the alloy one.

£200 is a bit of a push but I'm open to options around £100-120. I'm right in thinking a lot of wheels don't take a 11 speed cassette?

ogden, as TiRed says,

There's nothing wrong with the Giant wheels

Just buy that frame before I do! Have a nephew chasing after my small Defy and a spare Sora groupset in the garage. I actually upgraded Teen2's to an alloy Defy 5 frame from Ebay for £160, as I had a very nice carbon fork already.

EDIT: And the reason for suggesting Mavic is that they are 11spd compatible. Aksiums would be in your budget. Put a wanted in the classified. The Elite ES are probably the best used value though.

Something like this?
http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/mobile/mavic-aksium-road-wheelset-2016/rp-prod140606?gs=1&gclid=CjwKEAiA04S3BRCYteOr6b-roSUSJABE1-6BXbaj8y8jmdh7JjudTU3Yzhe3DEw6D_nfQ2VIbjxx4BoCaL3w_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

https://www.merlincycles.com/pair-shimano-6800-hubs-mavic-open-pro-rims-74862.html

Out of stock and price range.

Does anyone know if the giant defy had an specific bottom bracket and not a standard one?

interested in this too - and quite close to pushing the button on a Defy several times in the past.

What are thoughts on the Carbon vs Aluminium on the Defy's. Worth stretching to be able to get the carbon variant. Club rides mainly - definitely not racing although I might enter some TT's this summer just as a means of gauging progress......

For £163 you can run Fulcrum 5s

[url= http://www.wiggle.co.uk/fulcrum-racing-5-lg-alloy-clincher-wheelset/?lang=en&curr=GBP&dest=1&sku=5360675918&ci_src=18615224&ci_sku=5360675918uk&utm_source=google&utm_term&utm_campaign=UK_PLA_Components&utm_medium=base&utm_content=mkwid%7csn0uVS3Jk_dc%7cpcrid%7c67090789262%7cpkw%7c%7cpmt%7c%7cprd%7c5360675918uk ]Wiggle - Wheels[/url]

Giant defy. All the road bike a non racing person needs.

theotherjonv - Member
interested in this too - and quite close to pushing the button on a Defy several times in the past.

What are thoughts on the Carbon vs Aluminium on the Defy's. Worth stretching to be able to get the carbon variant. Club rides mainly - definitely not racing although I might enter some TT's this summer just as a means of gauging progress....

They do defys in aluxx, aluxx SL and carbon....

Mines a defy 0 aluxx SL. Apparently it has copper mixed in the alloy to allow it to be lighter whilst maintaining stiffness. Has carbon fork/seat post. Is awesome and comfy.

 

What are thoughts on the Carbon vs Aluminium on the Defy's

have ridden both and deliberated when I bought a Composite 1 in 2012. There wasn't much in it IMO. The Composite felt a little more compliant on a 50 mile test ride. Over the 4 years I had it, I rated it as the most comfy road bike I have ever ridden,and infact have just replaced it with a 2016 model. There are many racier setups out there, but I don't think many that are more comfortable for the average enthusiast

Got that frame set for £240! Now wheels and what specific bits in the 105 groupset

I've been looking at getting a road bike to commute on and build up fitness wonder if anyone has one or opinions on them as I don't know much about them.

Have you thought about getting a single speed? If you don't need gears, you might find an SS a bit more reliable at the budget you've set.

EDIT - Genesis Flyer on sale at about 500 [url= https://www.evanscycles.com/genesis-flyer-2015-singlespeed-bike-EV223069 ]here[/url]

Post some pics up when it's built, we all like a pic 🙂

What are thoughts on the Carbon vs Aluminium on the Defy's

Alloy and used bits
[img] ?oh=c75693f7ec704e184a769a80654e3f92&oe=578E1330[/img]

Carbon and shiny bits
[img] ?oh=f74683e06ccb0b69298bce389223cfe5&oe=57588B30[/img]

You be the judge 😉

And the green one is going racing on Sunday on a hilly course with the nice carbon wheels and a 28T cog!

Could anyone with a medium defy or anyone who knows help me? I'm going to buy a 105 groupset tonight but what is the crank length for the medium frame? Is the front mech braze on or band on? And do I need a Short or medium cage mech?

Braze on front mech
Crank length is personal preference
Cage length depends on which chainset and cassette you spec.

Thanks for the reply, how do I choose crank length if Im yet to have a preference lol

Get the shortest ones is probably your best bet. 170mm or less.

Probably best off getting a compact set with 50/34t chainrings and a 28/11 cassette. I think this should work with a short cage mech aswell.

I'd get a medium cage mech so you can run any cassette you like e.g.. up to 32t

I think you'll either want a 172.5 or 170 crank length. What is your leg length?

32t cassettes and medium cage mechs really do spoil the look of a nice road bike 😉

A medium cage mech will probably better with a compact and a 28t cassette, although if you don't cross chain then it doesn't matter.

Infact a 25t cassette will be better if you don't live anywhere too hilly.

I think you'll either want a 172.5 or 170 crank length. What is your leg length?

I don't think leg length matters too much. Just get the short ones; no disadvantages.

Haha, I couldn't give a sh1t what my 32t cassette looks like when I'm blowing out of my arse

Inside leg is 30-31, yeah live in North Yorks moors so quite a few hills.

What would people recommend to go with?

I'd say
50/34 cranks with 170 arms
Medium cage
11-32 cassette (you'll get up anything)

I think this should work with a short cage mech swell.

all shimano short cage road mechs work with 32t cassettes

Forget what someone else thinks about what your bike looks like. if you fancy climbing up Rosedale chimney (30%) your legs might thank you for a 32 cassette. its a cheap swap if you decide you need closer ratios. I've never been bothered by large jumps on the rear cassette.

When I was less fit I had a 36 at the back (trickier and expensive to do on 11 speed ) and I wa glad for it in he pryrenees.

all shimano short cage road mechs work with 32t cassettes

Yeh, but the chain'll be too long so it'll rub on the rear mech when in 34 11/12/13 etc.

30% hills are hard no matter what cassette you have. Don't get the 32; this is meant to be a road bike afterall.......

Yeh, but the chain'll be too long so it'll rub on the rear mech when in 34 11/12/13 etc.

no it doesn't

no it doesn't

🙂

So what's the medium cage mech for then......?

no idea

I've done it, the chain doesn't rub, theres a million videos showing it doesn't rub, just wind in the b-tension and job done

okay, imagine this scenario......

You're in the 50t ring, can you shift all the way into the 32t without any difficulty?

so this? https://www.evanscycles.com/shimano-105-5800-groupset-50-34-11-32-EV237772