posted Jul 3, 2008

I've never heard anything bad said about the Allez, and for that price point it's definitely one of the best options available to you. Go for it. Although are they sure about the frame size? I'm 6'1" yet ride a 58, I think for your size you should be at least a 56cm frame.

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posted Jul 4, 2008

first of all - is £500 your spend budget or your bike budget? i ask because "bike to work" is essentially a near 50% discount. so, for a £500 allez (which really cannot be questioned as a choice for this price) you will spend about £250 in all. if you have more to spend then there are other options.

i'm just over 6'1" and ride a 58 too. i would guess a 54 would be tight for you, but it depends on your shape and bike geometry - getting the saddle height will not be an issue, it will be more how your knees clear the bars and how your upper body "fits" the bars too. make sure you get the right frame though - a quick google will give you plenty of sizing guides - eg "wrench science" etc. if you get the frame wrong, the rest of the kit is already compromised so take the time to get it right - and find a knowledgeable bike shop (ones affiliated with clubs are often the best bet).

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posted Jul 4, 2008

I'm awaiting delivery of a Bianchi C2C Via Narone with compact chainset - I'm 5.10 and 14 stone - the bike to work scheme means the £950 price tag is nearer to £550 spend over the length of the scheme - that could very well widen your choices a lot

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posted Jul 4, 2008

I have not a bad word to say about the bike at all I got one about 6 months ago and its been a dream compared to my last one

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posted Jul 4, 2008

got an allez as well, made great difference to my cycling, especially on hills. for the price its a great buy. enjoy!!

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posted Jul 4, 2008

I have the double, it's great (apart from the Sora chainset)

Maybe wait till the 2009 models come out and grab a bargain on the 2008 model

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posted Jul 4, 2008

Great bike but benefits from a new set of wheels as the one that come with the bike are too flexy, maybe a 56 would suit you better also, I have a double myself and have fitted some Macic Aksium wheels and an Ultegra SL chainset. Hope this helps

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posted Jul 4, 2008

I have been told by my work (NHS)that the deal has to be fully signed up by 1st Aug and I have to deal with their cycle partner that is linked up to.I won't say their name on the website as I,m not sure if that would pass house rules.

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