Which new bike would you buy?

[Roadhump]

Last year, after only using an MTB for many years, I decided to buy a hybrid as I was mainly cycling on the road so I bought a Specialized Sirrus Pro online from Evans. I have really enjoyed using it and in the past 12 months have done about 3,200 miles on it, as well as about 500 on my MTB. The thing I really enjoy is being able to go much further afield on any one ride than on my MTB.

However, I would now like to buy a road bike as well. The Sirrus is quite quick, but I doubt as quick as a pure roady and I would like to use it for more leisurely rides and have a road bike for more pacy cycling. I may have to risk years in the doghouse with my lovely wife, who won't be happy with me spending even more money, but I can't get rid of this little horned demon whispering in my ear and I was wondering if anyone would recommend a good road bike for someone like me who is a (middle aged) beginner in terms of road cycling. I have thought of the Specialized Allez, and perhaps the Roubaix, but the latter seems a bit too snazzy for someone like me. Only thing is, I already have 2 Specialized bikes and wouldn't mind trying a different make. Any advice gratefully received.

 

[philtalksbx]

I went from a Spesh hybrid (Crosstrail in my case) to an Allez and loved it, great entry level road bike.
I do sympathise with the idea of trying other stuff though. I wanted a 29er and tried several out at the LBS and was surprised how different they felt.
And of course remember the n+1 rule.....

 

[Onyer]

I have a Roubaix and I love it. Did LEJOG on it last year. This year I have upgraded everything to Ultegra. But it is not good if you want to go touring and so I have bought an Enigma Etape titanium frame. Just waiting for the Ultegra goupset, plus hand built wheels to arrive and then the build can start. The Bianchi is a lovely looking bike and Cannondale Synapse have a very good review - Cycling Plus bike of the year. Best advice is to get the best frame you can afford and then upgrade components and wheels as and when you can.

 

[Roadhump]

I went from a Spesh hybrid (Crosstrail in my case) to an Allez and loved it, great entry level road bike.
I do sympathise with the idea of trying other stuff though. I wanted a 29er and tried several out at the LBS and was surprised how different they felt.
And of course remember the n+1 rule.....

Not sure I know the n+1 rule

 

[Cuchilo]

Don't worry about being a middle aged beginner , we are where it's at baby yeah all the kids want to be like us
I have two giant road bikes and don't have a bad word to say about them .

 

[vickster]

I need to ride the new build properly before buying a new bike!

What new bike will be largely determined in the first place by budget which wasn't obvious fm the first post...and then the minefield really opens up!

 

[snorri]

Not sure I know the n+1 rule

The n+! formula gives you the number of bicycles most cyclists would wish to own where n is the number of bikes presently owned. Strangely non cycling partners often feel n-1 would be closer to the ideal.

 

[Old Plodder]

I have both a GT road bike & a Felt S/Spd, if I get another, I will be looking at the Felt range, as they seem to fit me better.

N+1 rules - you are also likely to be a 'MAMIL' (Middle Aged Man In Lycra).

 

[cyberknight]

Purely based on no budget , the new cannonadale synapse or a boardman sls

 

[JoeyB]

If I was after another bike I might be swayed by this:

 

[JoeyB]

Oh dear, or this

I've just taken my excess dividends for the tax year, I best get it in the bank quick before I have a crisis.

 

[winjim]

If I was after another bike I might be swayed by this:

Very nice (I have the blue one), but not a pure roadie.