Opinion on Cannondale Caad8 Claris

[apn]

Hi

Looking to get a road bike, it's been 20 years so not looking to spend a fortune to start.

I've seen a Cannondale Caad8 Claris for £399.99, which I'm looking at on the cycle to work scheme. Any opinions on these?

Thanks

[anonymous-user]

Good bikes, entry level but reputable components. I'd go for the Synapse more than the CAAD but only because the Synapse has as loping top tube and pitches your body a little more upright which is comfier for cycling returnees and offers greater visibility for traffic etc

[j00pY]

I bought one with a Claris groupset for my first road bike. Depending on how much you want to ride and/or if you think this will become a serious hobby, I'd personally recommend going for the 105 version of the CAAD8. You'll have something then which would be a bike you wouldn't have to think about upgrading. The Claris groupset is okay but 16 gears is a bit limiting for when you start to get serious about road cycling. The Claris brakes are also lacking for hard riding.

I upgraded my groupset to 105s and wheels for about £400 and I think its a solid bike. I also have a supersix evo which is more expensive but I can't tell that much of a difference when I am riding the cheaper CAAD8. Its a fantastic bike. Like other posters have said though, its slightly more speed focused rather than comfort focused.