Synapse Alloy 2014 Disc 5 105 or Cell Akuna 1.1

[sinsw]

Hi all,

I'm looking to buy my first road bike, budget ~$1,200.
I've been looking at a Cannondale Synapse Alloy 105 vs Cell Akuna 1.1 Carbon fibre bike. Both fitted with a Shimano 105 groupset.
Done a bit of research online both appear to have good reviews. I can't decide which one to get: an expensive-alloy or cheap-carbon-fibre. Not saying Akuna is lousy it's just that most carbon fibre bikes priced at $2000.

http://www.cannondale.com/nam_en/2014/b ... disc-5-105" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Will disc brakes cost higher to replace/maintain?

http://www.this link is broken/Cell-Akuna-1-1" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

FYI: I'm 167cm tall. I'd like commute to work and weekend rides.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!! Thanks.

[rodneycc]

Thought the Synapse would of been over $1200? For me I'd go the Akuna but really depends on what type of riding you will be doing. If planning to commute in all weather then the discs would be very handy but if its only going to be a dry weather bike and you have a few bumpy paths then the carbon will soak those up better.

Try testing riding both and go with the one you like best.

[darkshrimp]

I've made a post for the disc 105, I personally have tested it and think it's the lightest bike I've seen, even compared to some cheap carbon ones. Furthermore, it's a pretty comfortable bike, BUT i'm currently debating if I should get a bike with disc brakes....

[MattyK]

Thought the Synapse would of been over $1200? For me I'd go the Akuna but really depends on what type of riding you will be doing. If planning to commute in all weather then the discs would be very handy but if its only going to be a dry weather bike and you have a few bumpy paths then the carbon will soak those up better.

Try testing riding both and go with the one you like best.

No need to add another reply, this ^ is all you need to read. Especially the last bit.

OK, more to add: discs should be cheaper to maintain as you don't wear out the rims.

[s3]

Given it is your first bike, it's possible it wont be your last. If you get bitten by the bug, start riding a lot, and want to upgrade in a year or two, the bigger brand (Cannondale) will have better resale, and thus be cheaper to own.

At full retail the Cell will be better value than Cannondale, as they have a direct to market model. But at this time of year when the stores are doing runout sales, you can get a good deal on a big name brand, and I believe that makes the Synapse a better buy.