I am new here posting but have been reading the forum for sometime now.

I was hoping to get some input from this fourm.

Looking for a new bike I currently am riding a 1986 Trek 1500 ( bonded Al ) I want to upgrade but funds are low. I have not rode any new bikes yet just starting to put a list together. I need a bike for Duathlons and Fitness riding between $ 1000-$ 1500.

My short list so far is Felt F65 and Specialized Allez Elite
Felt + carbon stays and New Ultegra 20 speed
-- cost $ 1,395.00, dealer 2.5 hours away

Specialized Allez Elite + local dealer thats very good, cost $1,100.00, looks great
-- lower 105 9 speed and no carbon stays

I hope to start testing bikes soon so any other ideas would be great. I may not even like the way they feel when I ride them. I know I need to ride each to get a good feel but for now just making a list, Thanks

If you are looking at Specialized you could also check out the Transition Multisport. This has MSRP of $1200.00.

http://www.specialized.com/OA_MEDIA/2005/bikes/05TransitionMulti_l.jpg

assuming both bikes fit you, i'd say go with the felt for the bang for the buck in terms of components. ultegra 10spd are hard to come by so if you can get one of the first that's pretty cool.

felt's are pretty popular in the tri world. but try out both bikes... tri/dua specific bikes tend to have steep seat tubes, putting you more forward in that aero tuck position.

most road bikes have geometries more for centuries/critirium/road racing, although you can move seats foward, get lower drop stems, etc.

john

tIf you are looking at Specialized you could also check out the Transition Multisport. This has MSRP of $1200.00.

http://www.specialized.com/OA_MEDIA/2005/bikes/05TransitionMulti_l.jpg
Just picked up a Multisport for $980 at LBS

you might take a look at the '05 GTs as well

bern