Giant or Specialised... New bike help!!

[oddbydefault]

New Bike HELP! - Specialised or Giant?!

I am looking to buy a cyclocross bike for a speedy commute across rough country lanes and hilly roads to university and work and longer fitness rides at the weekend [all seasons cyclist]. It will be an upgrade from my hybrid which is too big for me and has suspension forks + lockout... I want more speed, less weight and the comfort of drops!

I have narrowed the choice to 2 bikes from either one of my LBSs:

[url="http://www.tredz.co.uk/.Giant-TCX-3-2011_39467.htm"]GIANT TCX 3 2011[/url] £695 - 10% = £625

[url="http://www.tredz.co.uk/.Specialized-Tricross-2011_37664.htm"]SPECIALISED Tricross 2011[/url] £795 - 10% = £675

Bear in mind that I want to spend as little as possible as a student [I get 10% off as seen above]. I want to get a decent frame and keep upgrading componentry over the next months / years...

Is the only real difference between them the carbon forks on the Specialised? Is it even really worth it for the extra?

Thanks so much in advance.​

 

[cyberknight]

New Bike HELP! - Specialised or Giant?!

Is the only real difference between them the carbon forks on the Specialised? Is it even really worth it for the extra?

​

Carbon forks will help take the road buzz from the rough roads, i have alloy forks and my hands can really feel the vibrations coming up the fork, well worth the extra few quid and when i have some money i shall be investing in a carbon fork( next x mas maybe )

 

[Norm]

Tricross = lovely

Carbon forks are definitely worthwhile on the road.