Race geo - under a grand

[AlexRoy]

Struggling for ideas at the moment, so I thought I'd come and test the great bike-buying minds of CC again.

At the moment I have two bikes, a Giant Propel and Cube Peloton (now known as Attain). I've found over the past few months that the endurance-orientated Peloton is crap for training on given that the position is so vastly different to the race bike (Propel), even with the stem dropped.

So I'm going to ditch the Peloton and replace with something of a (much) more aggressive Geo. I don't want to spend too much, over a grand would be out of the question.

Now the obvious answer, before your say it, is a CAAD, which I'm already considering. I've also got one eye on the B'Twin Ultra 700, which looks superb value for money. I'd ideally like say 5 bikes to compare, but I'm struggling for race orientated bikes at that price point.

Any thoughts on the two options suggested or like-for-like comparisons out there would be gratefully received.

NB I don't ride long distances very often so have no need for a comfortable bike in my collection. Propel is perfectly comfortable up to 2 hours, If I go longer, I'll add a few spacers.

 

[vickster]

Why don't you train on the Propel?

I don't think the CAAD is super aggressive from what folks say, but get a test ride at Evans
Specialized Allez or a second hand Tarmac?
Cube Agree?
One of Planet X offering? Like the pro carbon
Or one of Ribbles wide range http://www.ribblecycles.co.uk/bikes/road-bikes/racing-bikes/

 

[outlash]

What sort of racing are you doing?

 

[mark st1]

or a second hand Tarmac?

Good shout that. The SL 4 seemed to have a good geomatry if you slam the stem and you have a strong back.

 

[AlexRoy]

I do train on the Propel.. when it's dry. I just want my foul weather/hack bike to be a bit closer in terms of position.

I had thought about an Allez but even though it's sold as a "race ready", the geo still looks pretty relaxed to me, maybe I'm wrong? I thought the same when I looked at the Agree.
Even for someone with reasonable knowledge, I find Planet X's range an absolute minefield. I got on the website, look at all of the options, think "can't be arsed to look through all of those", and move on. Lazy I know. The Pro Carbon I'm sure is a great bike and great value but wrong geo for me.
The Ribble 7005 looks spot on, that's a good shout. I'll add it to the list, thanks.

 

[vickster]

Yep, looks good for £700 with 11 speed 105

 

[mythste]

Trek emonda S4/5?

 

[AlexRoy]

Having had a couple days to think about this, the Ribble wins hands down. As @vickster says, with 105 it's hard to beat.

Looks like it's full 105 too, rather than badged up as 105 with bit of Tiagra thrown in, and a crank from some company I've never heard of.

There seems to be a winter version that has a rack mount...which means I can put my imminent son/daughter on the back when he/she is old enough. Also assume there will be space for 28 tyres which will help should I want to deviate from the road.

I'm not sure it could be more perfect. Aggressive geometry, quality groupset, light off-road capability (with 28s) and space for a small one on the back. All for £700.

Just need to find a new home for my trusty Cube and I'll be placing an order. Very excited