Spoony

Yeah, I just wouldn't need the third ring for my kind of riding. That's also assuming Greg wanted three chainrings (which it seems he does). I agree with you, it's just my opinion about aesthetics. This is something I WISH I could have. Someday......someday....

This is true. And? I was just stating that I prefer the aesthetics of a short caged derailleur and I don't need three chainrings. But that's just me.

Every time I look at the LeMond I can't help but think it'd be my number one choice if it had better components. I just can't justify Tiagra over 105 and Ultegra. The short cage derailleur is something I've always preferred on roadies though. It's a tough decision but ultimately I think the Motobecane is a better deal in the long run.

Your ratio is too easy! I'd be spinning out when going downhill! I've always thought the sloping top tube wasn't nearly as classy as a straight top tube. Anyways, hit up the shop for a saddle, shoes, and lights so you can remain a customer.

I think that's just part of a freebie type thing for more incentive to buy a bicycle from them. Remember, you'll still need a new saddle because I can't imagine that thing being very comfy.

Greg, I would say it's a battle between the Felt and the Motobecane. Tiagra isn't as good as 105 and Ultegra. If it were my decision, I'd roll with the Motobecane to use as a starter for the simple fact that I'd plan on getting something super nice for racing some time later.

I'm finding them for around 240ish. You can find the 151 bolt pattern for cheaper but the chainrings are a oh yeah! to find and they're all relatively large. I like running 45x16 so I'm sticking with 75's and a Zen chainring. Are they campy pista's or stradas?

Those campy track cranks on the last bike? If so, they for sale?

I'd much rather have a roof rack then a trunk mount but they both work. Who gives a stuff if it looks good. If it works efficiently then it's fine. The end.

I wouldn't suggest the Windsors or Merciers to anybody who wants to seriously ride (like you or me). Mercier and Windsor had a name a while ago but they were bought out and now they're cheap pieces of junk. They went the same way as many bike companies unfortunately but somehow came out worse then most. I don't think you should feel obligated to purchase a bike from the shop that fitted you. You'll be saving A LOT of cash if you get the motobecane and you can always help the shop out by getting things like tires, cables, lights ,brake pads, and other various necessities that wear out. That's usually what I do.

I know what ya mean. I try my best to support local shops around here but it's hard for them to compete with the internet sometimes. Bikesdirect is usually where I send somebody starting out on a track bike because it's ridiculous that you can get a new bike for 300 bones. As far as their roadies go, the prices are great considering you can always upgrade parts later on down the road. I'm interested on what route you take to purchase a bicycle. Shop or 1NT3RN3TZ!

Ain't nothin' wrong with a lil' color in your transportation. The bug's gonna bite you and you'll want to get a few bikes. One for training, another for racing, another for just riding, etc. I'd start out with something with sturdy parts and ride it until race season. Then go shopping for a racing bike with super nice parts. Another choice you'll have to make is frame material. Aluminum frames with carbon forks with integrated headsets are the new thing. You'll be hard pressed to find some really light steel or titanium frames for a price as low as aluminum although some are totally worth it. A huge aspect is making sure the frame fits you. That's of the utmost importance.

How serious are you going to ride? You can get a decent new bike off of bikesdirect.com. I would much prefer a Felt to any of the bikes offered on the site but you can't beat the price unless you have a hook up in a bike shop. Also, made a few changes:

And people call me crazy for riding brakeless. At least I don't have a coast! Props man, ted shredding gets it done.

This is my roadie. Just picked her up and plan on swapping out all the parts to ultegra. Very fast.

QUOTE (matt b @ Mar 3 2008, 05:36 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>Haven't touched my bike since December... I'll take your litespeed off your hands when you are done with it if you ever feel like donating it. I'll pay shipping too!

Ya know how it is, can't ride it at all or I'll scratch it.

Upgraded to better parts and a bigger frame. Much happier!

and how!

Ok, so my selle italia was stolen so I had to get a new seat. I also decided on some new bars which of course needed a new stem...

I wish I could afford that right now On the bright side, I'm looking at a Mongoose FS1 frame for 15 bucks Also, my friends dad used to ride track but quit and has a couple frames just lying around. I believe they are mi size as well! Might pick those up for a reasonable price. Might be your size too Rod <nudge nudge hint hint>

I thought you loved the ride of the orbea even though it was aluminum? How much do you want for the frame? That gunnar looks beautiful!

It's hard to trust the flea market over here because so many stolen bikes and parts end up there. My selle italia was just stolen and there's no doubt in my mind that it ended up there. Gotta be careful with what you're buying and who's selling it.

Somebody in SF had there's parked outside my favorite bakery and I was oggling it for 15 minutes. My friend dragged me away from it. I wish I had that kind of cash :(

Feel like overnighting some snacks?