yet another what road bike

[mike13]

This time sub £700,at the moment can't see past Boardman road race,would like some alternatives.In no immediate hurry but able to buy immediately if necessary(as in sales etc).

[ndg]

I've been out looking at bike with a friend today. Online and local shop research narrowed the field to the btwin triban 5, the merlin malt-r and malt-rs. We went out to look at these, including a trek up to Merlin. The Malt-R was £40 more than the btwin at £540, and the RS was £65 more again. The merlins were much nicer bikes, better quality feel, a significant step up in componentry too. Tiagra vs. sora, decent shimano wheels, michelin tyres etc.

In the end my friend went with the Malt R as he preferred the colour and wasn't too bothered by the better frame available. I would probably gone RS as I preferred the blue!

[mike13]

Strange you should say this,i used to have a Merlin Malt mtb(excellent bike),never gave them a thought for road bikes,thanks

[s3fella]

What's the diff between the malt r and the rs apart from the obvious colour diff.
For tiara equipped bikes they are keen prices.

[littleandy0410]

Pauls Cycles have some good deals if you don't mind having a 2011 model. My choice would be:

http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/products.php?plid=m7b...

ETA: Or this: http://www.paulscycles.co.uk/products.php?plid=m7b...

[ndg]

The rs frame is hydroformed, and it has better finishing kit - bars stem seatpost. The only thing that's a bit cheap is the bar tape!

[TheInternet]

Wiggle have some good discounts on the 2012 Felt range, the Felt F85 is now £600 and comparable spec to the Boardman, but you can get another 10% off if you buy a Pizza Express item at your local supermarket.

[mike13]

TheInternet said:

Wiggle have some good discounts on the 2012 Felt range, the Felt F85 is now £600 and comparable spec to the Boardman, but you can get another 10% off if you buy a Pizza Express item at your local supermarket.

Exactly why i asked for advice,that is a great offer,checked Evans who still have it at list,i can pop down there for sizing.Can't see them price matching with the further 10% off.

[SILICONEKID340HP]

Just started up cycling so only wanted to spend around £500 so i purchased this bike,The only regret is its only a 18 speed other than that i like the bike ..

Got this for £500

The next one up Ventura race is not alot more money ,comes with 105 ..probably should of spent a bit more and gone for that one

http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebikes/road/ventur...

http://www.jamisbikes.com/usa/thebikes/pdfs/12_ven...

Ventura race

Edited by SILICONEKID340HP on Sunday 12th August 11:09

[deckster]

Mod edit: please don't spoil the thread by posting up your own adverts

Edited by Matt172 on Sunday 12th August 12:17

[s3fella]

Another thread closed cos someone posts an ad!?

It's not hard, is it?

[LotusMartin]

I've got to say that after the first few rides I'm REALLY impressed with my Merlin Malt-R. Excellent spec for the money and only 3 days from order to delivery (they had to build it!)

Don't forget to price in pedals though if you don't already have some.

I switched to 700x25 conti 4000S tyres and a carbon post and the ride is superb. You might also want to order some extra bar tape and double wrap them - I've got quite big hands and found them too narrow (and looked a bit tacky!)

Overall its a steal.

[s3fella]

They are a great price for full tiagra gear.

[mike13]

Must admit i am being swayed towards Merlin,i think i have done too much research and now bamboozled myself.

Thanks,guys

[s3fella]

Have now found a 2011 tiagra spec caad 8 for about 650. Tempting being a top branded bike.