Old question new rider

[andywindsor]

What do you think is best on a budget? Second hand bike with Tiagra / 105 group set or new bike with Sora. I've narrowed it down to Specialized Allez due to it being the best fit, just need to decide whether to go for new or better spec equipment. Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

[vickster]

New. Get the warranty, know what it is, troubleshooting if any issue. You can always get new more expensive parts fitted as the old ones wear out

Nothing wrong with properly set up Sora

 

[Spiderweb]

Agree with Vickster. The lifetime frame warranty with Specialized is valid for original owner only so no warranty with a second hand Spesh.

 

[Racing roadkill]

New Sora sets are very good, the old ones had a thumb button on the hoods for up shifting, Some Campag sets and others still do. But the newest Sora set up has proper dual paddle Brifters, and they are less expensive to replace, if you drop the bike, or crash. I'd say go for the new Sora.

 

[NorthernDave]

Go new, enjoy the benefits the warranty and back up if anything is needed, then upgrade as parts wear out if you want to.

 

[Drago]

The older Sorta with the thumb buttons is great if you're commuting and spend a lot of time up on the hoods.

 

[winjim]

New Sora sets are very good, the old ones had a thumb button on the hoods for up shifting, Some Campag sets and others still do. But the newest Sora set up has proper dual paddle Brifters, and they are less expensive to replace, if you drop the bike, or crash. I'd say go for the new Sora.

There's nothing wrong with the Campagnolo thumb shifter, and even the Sora one was perfectly functional. The ergonomics are different though, the Campagnolo shifter is in a more comfortable position. Moot point though, really.

 

[doog]

I'd go new and upgrade as and when the wear bits out. (you might wear out before the bike) It might be clunky but you'll appreciate the upgrade when you do it.

That pre owned 105 thats never been out in the rain....probably has and for all you can tell might be ready for new bits....it all comes up shiny no matter the wear.

 

[T4tomo]

Given trickle down new Sora is pretty much old tiagra anyway

 

[vickster]

Must be pretty ancient tiagra given 9 vs 10 speed, and previous 10 speed tiagra came out before 2011

The hoods are quite a different shape too for example

 

[andywindsor]

Thanks all. Good advice. That looks unanimous!! So it'll be a new Allez for me. Cheers.