Assuming both of these bicycles feel the same when test-ridden, which would be superior for a beginner/intermediate level road racer? This is a big purchase for me and I am having trouble picking between the two, I figure I would let the reputations, components, and input from more experienced people sort this out.
Thank you very much

Cannondale R800
rame Material: 6061 T6 aluminum
Frame Angles: 73.0 head, 73.5 seat
Sizes: 48cm, 50cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm, 58cm, 60cm, 63cm
Colors: Red, Silver
Fork: Cannondale Ultra Slice Si
Rear Shock: Not applicable
Brake Levers: Shimano 105 STI Dual Control
Handlebar: Cannondale
Stem: Cannondale forged
Headset: 1 1/8" threadless FSA
Front Der: Shimano 105, clamp-on
Crankset: TruVativ Elita SL, 39/53 teeth
Rear Der: Shimano 105 SS
Pedals: Not included
Tires: 700 x 23c Hutchinson Reflex


Specialized Allez comp double
escription
Frame Material: Columbus SLX
Frame Angles: 73.5 head, 73.3 seat
Sizes: 50cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm, 58cm, 62cm
Colors: Red/White
Fork: Specialized C-4
Rear Shock: Not applicable
Brake Levers: Shimano Ultegra STI Dual Control
Handlebar: Specialized Pro, 31.8mm
Stem: Specialized Pro, 31.8mm
Headset: 1 1/8" integrated Specialized Mindset
Front Der: Shimano Ultegra, clamp-on/31.8mm
Crankset: Shimano Ultegra, 39/53 teeth
Rear Der: Shimano Ultegra SS
Pedals: Not included
Tires: 700 x 23c Specialized Mondo Pro

you definitely wouldn't want to say i'm an "experienced racer", but if they ride the same go for the ulteg bike, as a mechanic and rider i'll tell you ulteg feels nicer and lasts longer.

9 speed is going the way of the Dodo. Go with 10 speed Ultegra or Campy if it's not too expensive for you. It's the way of the future, or the next five years.

Wow, those are pretty good starter race bikes- you will be in good shape either way. That being said- go with the bike that fits you better. If they both fit the same, I would probably go with the Specialized.

:)

As others have said, all things equal or too close to call (i.e. fit, price etc), I'd go with the Specialized for the better components.

I agree with the other posters - both are nice bikes and you should test ride both and buy the one that feels better. If you can't discern a difference between the two, buy the one which comes from a better bike shop. Especially if you plan on racing, having a good local bike shop can be a major asset. Mail order places can't help you if you suddenly discover you need a new derailleur the day before a big race.

However, you mention that the bike will be a "big purchase" which brings up another important point: don't race a bike you can't afford to replace. Racing means riding hard in close quarters which usually means a crash or two at some point. If you're stretching your finances for a nice bike, you should realize that racing is hard on equipment and you might want to scale back a bit.

I'm sure you'll be happy with either bike, though.

- khill

I agree with the other posters - both are nice bikes and you should test ride both and buy the one that feels better. If you can't discern a difference between the two, buy the one which comes from a better bike shop. Especially if you plan on racing, having a good local bike shop can be a major asset. Mail order places can't help you if you suddenly discover you need a new derailleur the day before a big race.

However, you mention that the bike will be a "big purchase" which brings up another important point: don't race a bike you can't afford to replace. Racing means riding hard in close quarters which usually means a crash or two at some point. If you're stretching your finances for a nice bike, you should realize that racing is hard on equipment and you might want to scale back a bit.

I'm sure you'll be happy with either bike, though.

- khill

One thing to keep in mind, that most folks don't know about, is that if you do crash and bend up the bike, you may be able to get it replaced by either your homeowners or renters insurance. Each policy is different but it is worth checking out. I crushed my old race bike in a race and my homeowners replaced minus the $500.00 deductible.