Help me choose please......................

[stevepn]

Hi

I have decided to try and get fit, I can't start running because I have had a hip replacement so cycling should be better as less stress on the joints.
I am going to get a road bike through "Cycle 2 Work". I will probably use Primera in Bournemouth.
I am 5'8.5" with a inside leg of 28/29", so a 54 size frame or 55 in case of the Bianchi.
I am definitely over weight at 17st.

This is the list of bikes I am considering:
Bianchi Via Narone
Specialized Allez
Trek 1.7/1.9
Scott S40 (or S30 with Integra's on offer)
My budget is upto £1000.
My main concerns are what the bike looks like and will any of the above withstand my weight?
The Bianchi looks the sexiest

, but I also drive Alfa Romeo's so it's probably a Italian thing

.
Any advice or thought are most welcome.
Thanks, Steve

 

[zoglug]

Hi there, i can only pass comment on the Allez.

I purchased one 5 weeks ago after my mountain bike got nicked, and i have not looked back at all. I think its a gorgeous looking bike (ive got the black 09 model), its extremely light weight yet very responsive. With it being an entry level bike, it comes with mainly Sora. With your budget you could stretch to something with maybe Tiagra or 105 components. Standard tyres im not keen on and the brake blocks definately need upgrading. All in all i am very happy with my purchase.

All i would suggest is you try each bike out. Each ones geometry is slightly different, i didnt like the feel of the Trek or the Bianchi, but when i sat on the Allez, it just seemed to 'fit' me and my style.

Cheers

Zog

 

[arallsopp]

+1 for the Allez. Good bike.

Echo Zog above though. Try each one out, as well as anything else they've got to hand. Primera is a great shop, and sometimes the best bike for YOU is not one you'd normally pick.
It might even be (horror!) cheaper!