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Beginner Cycling

Brian F.
Brian F. Sendmail

Any thoughts on Specialized Sequoia Expert as first road bike?

asked over 2 years ago | Report

Here is a link to the one I'm thinking about getting. I want to start riding periodically throughout the week and thought this might be a good bike to start out on. Any thoughts? http://columbus.craigslist.org/bik/1248338971.html

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  • Kevin Z.
    Kevin Z. Sendmail

    This is the one I'm looking at getting for my 1st road bike. I personally don't want to get too much $$$ into a bike that I'll probably replace within a year with a muuuch better and more expensive bike.
    http://www.amazon.com/Schwinn-Volare-700C-Flat-Mens/dp/B000Y2PIIS/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top

    answered over 2 years ago |Report

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  • Brad B.
    Brad B. Sendmail

    That seems like a good deal, but especially for your first bike, you should really get fit by someone who knows what they're doing. Road bike-wise, 56" isn't all that big. Also, if you can swing it, you'll be much happier with a carbon frame, especially if you don't expect to upgrade any time soon. You can ride much more comfortably on carbon over long distances, especially if you're not on freshly laid asphalt. So find a good carbon frame that fits you, and cover it with economical components (except wheels - get good wheels). Then you can upgrade as you go.

    answered over 2 years ago |Report

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  • Greg S.
    Greg S. Sendmail

    I have to agree with Brad B. as far as fit goes. Its really a critical issue if you want to enjoy your bike and keep riding. A lot of good bike shops will offer a custom fit service in which they adjust the bike correctly for you. As incorrect fit will not only cause undue fatigue it can cause injury as well. So no matter which way you go its advised to have a pro fit the bike to you.

    answered over 2 years ago |Report

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  • Gehr 1.
    Gehr 1. Sendmail

    I disagree with Brad, 56cm may or may not be the right size because every manufacture measures differently. Top tube length is really the best when comparing frame to frame as fitting a road bike the stem length isn't as large a window of adjustment for proper fit. And Carbon can comfortable or it can beat the living snot out of you, not all carbon is equal. eg. Cannondale SuperSix (2009 at least, it's changed for 2010 and I haven't ridden the new one) is alot like the CAAD 9 stiff but comfortable the C'DaleSix Carbon rides much more harshly (too much so for my liking) and a Trek Madone (OCLV 110) feels like a dead wet noodle and a Orbea Orca is the stiffest, harshest dump truck, bike I've ever ridden....worst ever!!!

    Well, I'm not a Specialized fan as they are not innovators but marketing experts! For a "comfortable" style road bike the Cannondale Synapse 5 is a far better bike. Better cranks, wheels, handle bar and stem, saddle at $1299 (for 2009) a better value over all.

    Fit is very important and don't let a dealer sell you too small or too large a frame because they have it in stock. FYI 2010 Cannondales are being produced and will start to be available this month (Aug.)

    I know the CAAD 9 5 model is available, the price went up $100 to $1399 but you get a full carbon fork and a BB30 with Gossamer crank, well worth the price and excellent race bike but not quite as comfy as the Synapse.

    answered over 2 years ago |edited over 2 years ago |Report

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  • Paul K.
    Paul K. Sendmail

    I absolutely agree with Gehr 1 on his points about fit - the way the bike fits you and not how another bike would fit on the shop's rack. Try out a bunch of brands from many shops and see what you are most comfortable riding. Many manufacturers are selling for 15-20% off right now as summer comes to an end. Personally I ride Specialized and a 56 comp frame fits me perfectly. I also agree about a carbon frame. Unless you are a young stud who can handle every bump - carbon will ease the road.

    Remember - you want your riding experience to be a good one and good equipment cannot be overlooked. Best of luck!

    answered over 2 years ago |Report

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