[Closed] OMG Just ridden a half decent road frame

used to be pretty popular round my way with the TT boys.
Managed to bend the rear mech hanger on my Ti Raleigh yesterday when a jockey wheel dropped out and everything wrapped itself into a ball 😥

Now you know why your planet x was so cheap, the big brands are more expensive for a reason lots more R @ D and better materials and it sounds like its an old one, take a new one out on demo.

Checking it out properly for fit as it is actually bigger than my PX.
The frames going cheap cheap, never raced or ridden much at all.

The deal might be the frame for £600 plus some nice new 1329g scandium Giant wheels and new Ultegra groupset at cost all from the nice Giant people.

Sounds like a good deal those new giant wheels are made with all DT Swiss components so should be top quality.

Now you know why your planet x was so cheap, the big brands are more expensive for a reason lots more R @ D and better materials

Sweet..

I suspect the 500g weight saving for the wheels was the biggest factor. That and perhaps the stiffness? I think that the original Giant TCR is a classic bike. First compact road frame. I almost bought one, but eventually chose something a little more traditional.

OP when did you last ride a decent road bike?

i was actually thinking of saving for one of these [img] [/img] http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-gb/bikes/model/tcr.composite.2/9310/49807/ £1,499.99 for my first proper road bike.have decided to go for a new guitar/amp instead though (as i don't have my own guitar/amp).they do look very nice though 😀

I found a decent road bike, my size, in a river, dumped off a bridge by whoever stole it and smashed the rear wheel. Gave it to the Police who gave it back a month later and since then I've ridden it 3500 miles while the poor old mountain bike has done less than 100.

There is nothing like a good road bike for thrills and fitness.

In my shed I've got the original aluminium giant tcr frame that did the rounds of pro cycling and cycling weekly for review, introducing compact frame geometry to the masses (Roberts got there first but giant/Burrows got the headlines). Raced it for a few years but it's now my wife's road bike gathering dust. I've also got one of the first carbon pre production TCRs that was an unused spare for ONCE in the 2002 tour. That one is now my turbo bike. I'm uncooth with no sense of history!

My friend also bought from Mike Burrows a frame originally made for Jalabert for a mountain stage of the tdf (or more strictly the last climb). It was so acid etched (what they used to make the tube walls thinner after welding prior to carbon frames to get the weight down pre minimum weight limits) they rated it as rideable for a couple of hundred miles max. It was so thin you could press the walls of the downtube in with your fingers. He managed to get a whole season out of it before it fell apart.

convert - Member
It was so thin you could press the walls of the downtube in with your fingers

Some Prinicpias had this characteristic, I bet quite a few other brands also.

what wheels are on the SL pro?

Some Prinicpias had this characteristic, I bet quite a few other brands also.

I was sponsored by Principia (or their UK importer/part owner) in 1999 and had an off the shelf Rex Pro (the acid etched one) but this Giant was in another league of taking it to an extreme. No way they would have sold it to the public. Jalebert hoped off his standard bike, rode this version for a short uphill section of a stage and then they were junked and he had a new one for the next time it was appropriate. Surprisingly stiff though (as was the Rex pro come to that).

al, when I raced in the 70/80/90s they were all shop steel custom fits i.e Shorters, Don Farrell, Roy Thame. Then I did ten years of MTB. When I returned race bikes had changed so much, and their claims were in hindsight a little misleading.
I've done two seasons on the PX, but this is a different league.

Sefton, Aksiums and Shimanos.

[img] [/img]

Love my ribble, but I do avoid at all costs riding a proper race frame, cause I know I will want to upgrade (even more then I do now).

Think I'd love one of these..

http://www.canyon.com/_en/roadbikes/bike.html?b=2531

Or a SL4, or a King3...

Oldgit, I'd be getting a Scott Addict if I were you; they very nice bikes...

[img] [/img]

and while picasa is open...

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Is that yours?
Put a leg over a few Scotts actually, but this is nice and the cost deal is tempting.
Your old frame is going to become a club bike for new riders wanting to try the road.

Yes, it was a 'Oh my Dad is dying, I'll buy a new bike and maybe get some cash to pay it off' purchase. He survived, so I've had to pay for it myself, much to his amusement..

Excellent news about that old frame, I'm glad it's going on to hopefully faster things!

There is nothing like a good road bike for thrills and fitness

Nothing like the feeling you get from a proper decent road bike... it's so nice to really feel just about 100% of your power going into forward motion, I find it genuinely inspiring! Makes you want to get fitter just so you can go faster for longer...

Seeing as we're posting pics... here's my road bike:

[url= http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3394/5839739663_3c1f1fd280_z.jp g" target="_blank">http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3394/5839739663_3c1f1fd280_z.jp g"/> [/img][/url]
[url= http://www.flickr.com/photos/32746168@N08/5839739663/ ]IMG_3268[/url] by [url= http://www.flickr.com/people/32746168@N08/ ]ten_sim[/url], on Flickr

My current 'training plan' involves me improving my 'power to weight' ratio by dropping around 15 odd kilograms... that should make a maa-hoosive difference to my riding 😆

At least you didn't go for an expensive mistress and a Ferrari 🙂

Bike's are my mistress, definitely... can't afford a Ferrari, but I can (just) afford expensive bikes! 😀

Here's my other more 'classic' road bike, SLX steel De Rosa from the '90's I believe...

[url= http://farm2.staticflickr.com/1005/5184410469_15fc11ffcd_z.jp g" target="_blank">http://farm2.staticflickr.com/1005/5184410469_15fc11ffcd_z.jp g"/> [/img][/url]
[url= http://www.flickr.com/photos/32746168@N08/5184410469/ ]DSCF4083[/url] by [url= http://www.flickr.com/people/32746168@N08/ ]ten_sim[/url], on Flickr

Um, I didn't go for a Ferrari, and she turned out less expensive than she could have been... 😯

[img] [/img]

WTF is that saddle??

That IF doesn't look as awful as I thought it was going to when you posted up the shop drawings.

http://www.ismseat.com/saddles/adamo-racing-ii

Not keen myself, but each to their own perineum..

It does work for me... worth a go if you have trouble with numb nuts...

I notice the Addict is no more for 2012 - just the Foil and the CR1. Always wanted to like them, but just can't get excited. Crikey's looks too small, all a bit wrong.

That IF doesn't look great IMO, although I can see the appeal!

Still want to replace my ageing Madone SL, but it just works, and still rides really nicely! Particularly compared o the POS Allez I commute on!

So it's an aggressive position time trial saddle? And it's actually comfortable on that bike? They look proper weird lol 😯

[i]Crikey's looks too small, all a bit wrong. [/i]

I've got little legs but a long upper body, so I buy bikes for the length rather than the height. It makes them look like the bike is too big for me, but otherwise I end up with a stem about 130-140 mm and struggle to get far enough back. 🙂

So it's an aggressive position time trial saddle? And it's actually comfortable on that bike?

[url= http://www.ismseat.com/saddles/adamo-road ]Mine's the 'Road' version[/url], more padding and not for such an aggressive TT position. I've used it for 4-5hr rides and it's great (for me), you do have to get used to it though...

Going to get a [url= http://www.rido-cyclesaddles.com/c.do?category=100130 ]Rido RLt to try out as well[/url], doesn't look quite as weird as the Adamo...

I've got one of these....and 50mm carbon tubs....and a dura ace groupo.
[img] [/img]
but I can't ride it till I get a stem...that is'nt coming till January 1st.
AAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

Bike with 1lb lighter wheels climbs hills quick shocker.

Road.cc were out on this today and seemed happy on the 100k ride.
http://www.shedfire.com/2011/11/19/new-planet-x-n2/

but I can't ride it till I get a stem...that is'nt coming till January 1st.

I wouldn't be taking that outside until around April time lol.. But why can't you just get a cheapy stem for now if you really want to ride it?

Thanks to giants new overdrive 2 1&1/4" headset standard there's only giant stems available to fit...which don't land till week 1 2012 (I've already had the frame for a month...frustration overload!!)

That looks niiice Brant....which catalogue?

Thanks to giants new overdrive 2 1&1/4" headset standard there's only giant stems available to fit...which don't land till week 1 2012 (I've already had the frame for a month...frustration overload!!)

Oh yeah, forgot about those lol. Unlucky.

It won't touch tarmac till crit season starts anyhoo....would still like to play with it though 😳

Rorschach - Member
That looks niiice Brant....which catalogue?
POSTED 1 HOUR AGO # REPORT-POST

Cheeky boy.
Not made in my shed, but all ours. Muhahahahaha

[img] [/img]

Not my cup of tea Brant. Could you make an elegant, flowing version? 😉 I love that De Rosa. Stunning. Is that the one I was drooling over even though it was the wrong size?? 🙂

The reason why I clicked on this thread- it sparked an intense memory...As a kid I rode alot of road bikes. Then one day I had a spin on my mates Dads (who was a marshal/keen club member) and tbh I just couldn't give the bike back. It was utterly amazing. Never ridden anything like it.

I'd love to recreate that.

I've got little legs but a long upper body, so I buy bikes for the length rather than the height. It makes them look like the bike is too big for me, but otherwise I end up with a stem about 130-140 mm and struggle to get far enough back

Fair enough!

Rorschach, apparently the Specialized adjustable stems without the adjustable shim thingy fit, as do the Syntace F119. Not tried it, but a chap came into the shop saying as much last week. I've got an unused F119 if that's of any interest? 100mm IIRC. Happy to offer 'sale or return' 🙂

Edit: a bit more digging suggests the Spesh one is a bit dubious, but the Syntace does fit, and FSA are doing a very expensive one. Ritchey are also available through Canyon (who use a 1.25" stem).

I was looking at the Scott Foil yestrday - working out how i can pay for the 20 version. Turns out i cant nor can i pay for the TCR Advanced 2 i fancy either.

I probably can afford the new N2A frame from PX though 🙂

On closer inspection the very bottom of the fork looks a bit ugly or is that just an illusion the way it starts to bend backwards?

[img] [/img]

EDIT: Not to mention the saddle and stem

And the amber wall tyres.

This is a bit better:

[img] [/img][/url]

I agree with njee20 - wheels look a bit 'quick, what have we got in the workshop that'll fit'.

(which from what I've read on frame delivery/build time may well have been the case).

I'm no racer but changing my Ribble Sportive frame (admittedly a more relaxed fit) to a Spesh SL2 (in teh sales I might add) the difference was very noticable 🙂

That bottom one looks pretty awesome actually. Looks like a long headtube though.

What would you guys recommend for a decent bike purchase?

Forget the 'first bike/newbie' bike. Something that punches above its price is more the ideal.

well I quite fancy that 2nd N2 P-X there so can you buy that and then sell it to me at 50% of retail after a month?

Only if I bought it at cost price 😉

ooh that PX is nasty.

The BB area looks good but the seatstays are too big where it joins the seattube and the headtube area is 'orrid (IMO)

It's a lot better than many of the new breed of aero road bikes, the Cervelo S5 is utterly gopping!

brant - Member
Bike with 1lb lighter wheels climbs hills quick shocker.

more like better bike costs more shocker...

I've always felt that the wheels make a much bigger difference than the frame both on MTB's and Road bikes. I'd be tempted to go for one of those Planet-X's and stick some really nice wheels on it, C24's or similar....

An aero frame with shallow section wheels? A bit pointless no? Or do you mean a Nanolight?

I'd far rather have those Planet X 50mm deeps than C24s anyway! The Dura Ace C50s are nice though.

"'ve always felt that the wheels make a much bigger difference than the frame both on MTB's and Road bikes."

Geniune question (agree on road bikes) - but on mtb's - really??

Yes tyres (drag, centrifugal weight/spin) but I thought it was only light rims to feel any difference but then you'd compromise strength??

Heh... the N2A with the white turbo, Spinachi's, Suzue hubs and amber wall Grand Bois tyres was Dave (PX Owner's) personal custom semi-piss-take build.

Proper build is the other one as ridden by RoadCC.

Dave was looking at putting green fixie-pops tyres on it at one point.

Bike will take a 26C which we're delighted about 🙂

I've found those Planet X 50's a bit flexy, and stuff like the FFWD's and cheaper Reynolds are heavy, especially the clinchers.

I'm more thinking along the lines of the OP with his PX SL, changing the wheels from Aksiums to something lighter would make a big difference without the need for a new frame. Unless you want to spend mega money on Enve or the higher end Reynolds, you'd be better with a decent shallow section rim on some decent hubs for the same money. Just my opinion of course, and deep section wheels do look much better...

My biggest revelation came when I switched from SPD's to look pedals with some stiff carbon shoes - the difference was massive.

Hora - I can't believe the difference lighter wheels made to my xc bike, best money I've ever spent..

I've found those Planet X 50's a bit flexy

We do a 24 spoke front version for people who find the 20's a bit floppy.

Don't get me wrong Brant, they're a good wheel and I used them (well, the 80/100) on my TT bike. Just found them a bit flexy for crits

I've found those Planet X 50's a bit flexy, and stuff like the FFWD's and cheaper Reynolds are heavy, especially the clinchers.

Well yeah, deep section clinchers are heavy unless you spend silly money! The tub FFWDs aren't heavy though, F4Rs look really good. It's why I'd go tubs, or build on some Alpha rims for clinchers. C24s are nice, but expensive.

"Hora - I can't believe the difference lighter wheels made to my xc bike, best money I've ever spent.."

Which ones etc? I'm currently using Hope Hoops on DT Swiss5.1/EX500

I'm using Tune King/Kong on Stans 355's or whatever they're now called. But I know Njee uses A2Z or whatever they're called and they're meant to be more reliable. Had some Amercian Classic hubs on velocity rims, really light but the hubs were made of cheese and I was forever snapping spokes. Depends on what you want to use them for of course...

Just general trail riding really. I had CK's for almost 7yrs that went through a variety of rims before they eventually gave up.

Personally for the cost the CK's are a bit heavy IMO. Lovely hubs though...

If its trail riding then you're probably best off on what you've got, maybe with some light'ish tyres. But whatever you do, don't get the Crank bros wheels, any of them. Pretty light but utter shit...

I had my first date with a road bike this weekend, having treated myself to this bad girl. Let's call her 'Tina. Quite possibly the most aesthetically pleasing object I've ever owned.

[img] [/img]

Had a fantastic ride round most of the Isle of Wight in perfect conditions. As with any first date, and after 20 years of riding flat-barred bikes of one sort or another, I never quite knew what to do with my hands. 😕

Personally for the cost the CK's are a bit heavy IMO. Lovely hubs though...

+1, DT240s on Crests with your choice of spoke would be a very nice set up for all round trail use.

Saying that, as Flange said I've been really impressed with the A2Z hubs, and would certainly use them again! I'm sure there'll be a catch with them, but I've not found it yet! Mine built with Podiums and Revolutions are 1246g with yellow tape and valves. They're quick.

Tina is a pretty little thing, congrats.

You lot ^ quit the mtb talk up there

Sorry sir. 😳

Willier needs proper pedals.

Sorry sir.

Willier needs proper pedals.

I know, I've got some of those Shimano SPD ones that look like road pedals for her now.

Don't want to go the whole hog with the disco slippers just yet - I was enough like Bambi on ice on the bike, never mind on foot.

And the Singletrack drinking bottle is a nod to the cognoscenti and a little [i]hommage[/i] to my mountain bike roots.

Rode one of the top of the range Trek OCLV frames when they first came out years ago was about 6k at the time I think (10 odd years ago), just twisted my brain how good it was 😀

I know, I've got some of those Shimano SPD ones that look like road pedals for her now.

You mean touring pedals? A520s maybe? I use them on my road bike in winter so I can use my mtb winter boots.

Rode one of the top of the range Trek OCLV frames when they first came

I've just got a 2012 Madone 5.9 frame, very nice to ride but not as sexy as something Italian I suppose.

Just done my usual 43 mile pre race ride, and compared to my Planet X SL Pro it felt akin to cheating.

So how much faster were you then oldgit? Unless your time for the ride was significantly faster then your old bike at the same level of effort I'd put what you're noticing down to the placebo effect.

I know, I've got some of those Shimano SPD ones that look like road pedals for her now.

So how much faster were you then oldgit?

I've thought about this before, if I put a power meter onto various bikes and kept the power constant over the same course on the different bikes then compared the time, that would show how the different bikes compared objectively wouldn't it? But I haven't heard anyone do this so probably wrong.

I have one of those Giant TCR 2's that racefaceec90 mentioned on previous page. Unridden, no pedals with rrp of £1,499. It is next years model as well.

Looking to sell for £1,000 keep meaning to put it on classifieds (somebody let me down!). The groupset is Ultegra / 105 and Giant finishing kit. It is a M/L size for 5'9" to 5'11" people. Email in profile if anybody interested.