TupacInLA

Hi everyone,

Ok, so I bought a Raliegh Cadent FT0 flatbar road bike a few months ago as my beginner bike and now I feel that I am graduated up to a better & faster bike (w/ bullhorns).

So I went to a LBS test rided a couple and fell in love; made my Raliegh bike feel inferior. I tried a couple of the Giant Defy road bikes. But the price is a little steep for me. On a side note, upon some research I came across bikes direct website and love how much bang I get for my buck!

Considering I'm still fairly new when it comes to choosing bikes... I was wondering if this bike is any good?

https://www.bikesdirect.com/products/...rtalpro_xi.htm

I'm mainly looking for a bullhorn road bike that I can go fast in comfortably. I want to be able to break my own records and keep building up my endurance.

I appreciate any help towards finding my new bike. Thanks

SlimRider

The problem with buying online is finding the proper fit. If you already knew what model of bike you wanted, and had already test rode the bike, then you would know your bike size. However, as it stands right now, you have no idea about your bike size.

Since bike sizes vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, it's all a matter of good fortune to find the right size bike online.

All you can do is guesstimate using bicycle sizing charts as guides:

https://bicycling.about.com/od/howtor...ike_sizing.htm

PS.

A good start would be your local bike shop. I would suggest that you first look at the Jamis Satellite Comp and the GT Corsa 1.0 road bikes.

TupacInLA

Thanks SlimRider that chart helps a lot. I will look into those two bikes as well. The only thing about the LBS is they charge more than I can afford for something of a lesser quality to that online.

SlimRider

In that case, checkout the GT Corsa 2.0 and the Jamis Satellite Sport road bikes. They're slightly less expensive.

You can always upgrade components later...

OTOH

You could always go to performancebike.com and locate a store near you. You could then have your specific bike shipped to that particular Performance location.
If it doesn't fit, then just give it right back and have them order the right size. If all fails, you get a 100% refund!

Currently, Performance has the Fuji Roubaix 2.0 with Tiagra components, for only $800. To me, that sounds like a really great deal!

You're welcome!

catonec 

bikes direct is a great value. what slim rider said about proper fit rings true however you can make some adjustments to fit in the seat position and stem so long as the frame is in the ballpark. just remember that there will be some assembly required and the curly road handlebars are called drop bars, bullhorn is another style.

TupacInLA

Sounds good guys. Drob bars is what i meant! Woops. Lol But yeah I think ill do some more local bike shopping before i finalize my decision at bikesdirect. After all, it's better to know what your riding before you buy.

lesdunham

TupacInLA,

I bought the Immortal Force back in 2005 and put 19,000 miles on it (6 years) before buying a new bike, now it is my back-up. One of the best bikes for $$ out there, imo. I also like the LeChampionCF. Since you already know your frame size and have some experience you can purchase BD with some confidence. Just know that customization is out and there is limited customer support. But within 30 minutes of arrival you can ride your new bike and enjoy it. There are many people who shun BD here online. I say do what is best for your $$. If you can put on a brake caliper, handlebars, wheels, and seat/seatpost and then do small adjustments to perfect it than by all means consider BD. I like doing 98% of my own work. The bike shop mechanics may be slightly better than I but no one cares about my bike, my riding, and satisfaction more than me.

manutd

Come on!!!!!

This is obviously a marketing post.

Slimrider you should be ashamed of yourself.

10 Wheels

Get this one for $750, that is 50% OFF

https://www.competitivecyclist.com/za...ODUCT.ID=32174

SlimRider

And your point is.....

catonec 

thats a good price on the ridley