Mate’s looking for a road bike to do London-Paris this year.
I’m not a road bike expert but reckon Shimano 105-spec should just about be in his price range.

Seen any good deals recently?

Have a look on Pauls Cycles.

Planet X

http://www.planetx.co.uk/i/q/CBPXSLPULT2/planet-x-pro-carbon-shimano-ultegra-road-bike

or Ribble

http://www.ribblecycles.co.uk/sed/road-track-bike/ribble-sportive-bianco-shimano-equipped?part=SE13RIBSPORTBIANSHIM&sub=conf_SERC

both probably worth a look, on paper the Planet-X looks amazing value.

As above, plenty of choice if he goes for last years model from somewhere like Paul’s Cycles. There’s a few defy’s on there around £1k. My money would go on this but the geometry may not be to everyone’s taste.

Wow – that Planet X looks unbeatable for the price

That CAAD10 looks good too – he might prefer a mainstream brand, but only 1 size still in stock

It’s worth asking your buddy how ‘racey’ he wants the bike to be. He might be looking for something a bit more comfortable than the Planet X…

Something different

Good point Shermer….. he was originally assuming he could just do it on his MTB!
That Mekk might suit him better – good find alexdodd

I got a cannondale synapse carbon from Pauls. It was 1400 with 105 but they have one with tiagra for 999. I came from 20 years of mtb’s. Wanted something with a bit of ‘give’. Is very compliant and geometry is a bit less racy. I really like it…Absolutely stunning service too..ordered at 2pm and was in my kitchen at 2pm next day