So it's come to this...

[McFsC]

A while back I asked the question of which road bike to buy with my budget of £800 - £1000.

It's come down to two bikes:

Specialized Allez Comp - 2012 http://www.hargrovescycles.co.uk/products.asp?part...

Boardman Road Comp Bike - 2011/2012 http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/...

Now, my last request from the PH pool of knowledge is, which one offers the best value for money or, ultimately, is the best bike?

Thanks.

[Comfortably Dumb]

Have you riden either of them?

I ask because no matter which offers better 'value for money' in our opinions if you don't like it you'll end up losing significant amounts of cash.

[anonymous-user]

nothing in it really spec wise, 105 is very good, reliable shifting, as is Sram Apex...Both are fairly light too, a decent set of wheels would bring them well under 20lbs. Personally, i'd go with the allez just to avoid the hit or miss of Halfords staff.

There is a good review of the allez here, http://road.cc/content/review/55145-specialized-al...

[McFsC]

I've ridden them very breifly, along with several other bikes around this price range. They were the two that felt nice to sit on and comfortable.

Just wondering on the reliability of the gears, brakes, frame and what other people would go for really.

[anonymous-user]

gears and brakes are as reliable as you maintain them. even the best stuff is rubbish if you dont look after it.

Both frame and forks are taiwanese alu (though the boardman has full carbon forks not just carbon blades and an alu steerer like the allez) really, both are good bikes and you will be fine with either.

[NitroNick]

Have you looked at any of the Canyons. Like this one..... Canyon AL7.0

[anonymous-user]

Allez frames are very good. I bought an old snotter last winter and ended up with an SL3 as I really got on with the handling.

[Saddle bum]

Had no experience of Hargroves myself, but my riding partner raves over their customer service. He has bought several high value machines from them with good outcomes.

[McFsC]

That's reassuring to read, Pablo! Thanks.

No, I've not heard of Canyon before, I think I will go for an Allez unless Halfords come up with a sale soon.

[burriana]

Before you pull the trigger at least look at Canyon.

I have only ever seen good reviews and, a few of the guys in our club have them and they look really cool. They are supposed to be very high spec for the money too.

[McFsC]

Interesting, Do they sell them from outlets or online only? I'd prefer to ride/sit on one at least.

It's coming up to the perfect time to get some 2012 models at bargain prices too, here's hoping anyway.