Beginner friendly road bikes with 105 groupset

[GCS15]

Hey peeps! I'm thinking about starting road cycling for leisure and fitness. Could you recommend a newbie friendly road bike with a decent groupset? I heard the 105 is quite alright for beginners. Thanks!

[AUbicycles]

Hi, the quality of a groupset is significantly influenced by how well it is cared for. Shimano 105 is often perceived as the entry for road cycling, however depending on your budget, groupsets in the heirachy below can perform very well based on the feedback of experienced forum members.

Which bike... it is like 'how long is a piece of string'.

But to help you, here is a forum thread that shows which bikes the forum members own. This will give you an idea of the popular brands. It, by no means suggests that brands with only a few owners are of any less quality, rather it is a good list for you.


Bike Brands owned by members

[GCS15]

Lovely thanks very much!

[MattyK]

What's your budget?

There is a new (11 speed) 105 series that is just starting to appear on some bikes. Many will still have the older (10 speed) version though. Both are good, the 11 speed will be a bit more future-proofed but also a bit more expensive.

Also, when a spec says "105" be aware that often they do not include ALL of the components from that series. There are often substitutions made to reduce the cost (eg cranks, brakes). This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but it may explain why some bikes are cheaper than others.

[lobstermash]

What you choose will be a tradeoff between your budget, your minimum standard (often determined by the intended use) and your required level of reliance on a bike shop post-purchase.

If you can do basic maintenance and fitting yourself, you can get a lot of bike for a relatively small amount of money.

The current 105 groupset (11 speed) is truly exceptional value and a wonderful interface between rider and bike. Aside from the decals and price, it's almost identical in every way to the current Ultegra groupset.

However, the groupset is only a third of the bike (more or less). The wheels and tyres will influence how you perceive the ride, but the frame is the most important component. Make sure you get the right size and that you can adjust the fit to make yourself as comfortable as possible.

[Usernoname]

I've just bought a real road bike, riding MTB's for 7yrs and cheapies before that. I went with a merida ride 5000, good frame, fork, Ultrega shifters derailleurs, OK wheels and lower end drive train. If you want a drop bar road bike (group rides, longer distances), check out the endurance range (like my ride) - a bit more beginner friendly geometry and compliance. Giant (defy), Merida ride, Norco (?) entry level. Trek (Domane) and Specialized (Roubaix) mid range. If just for fitness and some bike paths as well as road, check out some flat bar roadies or even something like the Merida Cyclocross 500 with 105 11sp for > $1600

[GCS15]

Thanks guys! I'm thinking say max $1500 for the bike. Am thinking about the Giant Defy 1. Reid Falco Elite is cheaper but has 105 components.

[lobstermash]

I used to have a Falco Elite and it was a great bike (died in a crash). However, I ordered it online and did all the setup (fit-wise) and maintenance myself, which although I found fairly straightforward, many apparently don't. Reid stores will help with that stuff too, but I can't vouch for how good or bad they are at getting you fitted out etc. Giant retailers seem to have a very good reputation for service and know-how.

It's pretty hard to go wrong with a budget of ~$1500. The Defy is a great bike too. Factor in other gear you might need to buy into your budget, including replacement tyres (stock tyres are generally a cost-cutting point for manufacturers), bottles, tools, pedals, shoes, clothes etc. It's also worth having a look at a few other bikes in the same price range and spec.

[Duck!]

There isn't really such a thing as a beginner unfriendly bike except maybe for specialist time trial & downhill mountain bike rigs....

[davesday]

Thanks guys! I'm thinking say max $1500 for the bike. Am thinking about the Giant Defy 1. Reid Falco Elite is cheaper but has 105 components.

I have the Giant Defy 1 and I love every bit about it. Also if you shop around I'm sure you will get one below RRP (around the $13xx mark). It has the new 11-speed 105 which offers light action shifting and smoother. Most of the essential components are 105 except for the crankset (FSA Gossamer) and brake callipers (Tektro) but you can always upgrade them later on. Nothing wrong with the FSA when its tuned properly, shifts instantaneously with minimal chain rub. The brake callipers provide sufficient brake force and if you want to improve that there's always 3rd party pads like Swisstop or Koolstop. The only issue I have with the bike is initial torque required to move FD to first trim setting. This is due to the angle of the shift cable in relation to the FD (its almost parallel to the FD long arm) - something I believe is incorrect assembly.

I had just upgraded the crank from FSA Gossamer to 105 5800 50/34T + BB71 press fit and it feels much nicer (I got a deal for new crankset I couldn't refuse ). Interestingly the cable pull issue on the FD is now resolved. Perhaps with the crank setup wider the FD has been retuned.

I also have the Falco Elite but 2014 model so 10-speed. There isn't much review on the 2015 Falco Elite at the moment but I've seen a few bikes (at store) with frayed cables along the down tube (maybe just the way it was installed). If you can still find new 2014 Falco Elites, the only issue you need to be aware is the cabling on the bars. Mine suffers from very tight shifting and the bar tape had to be redone.

[GCS15]

What do you guys think of the Cell bikes like the Omeo 1.0 or the Lapa 2.0?

[TMjpn]

What do you guys think of the Cell bikes like the Omeo 1.0 or the Lapa 2.0?

I certainly don't think you could go wrong with either. The Omeo is a very good base for future updating if you can remain impervious to 'brand' envy in social circles...

[rodneycc]

What do you guys think of the Cell bikes like the Omeo 1.0 or the Lapa 2.0?

Cell is having their EOFY sales on at the moment so a good time to buying a bike there.

The Omeo 1.0 would be the best of the lot being Full carbon, Ultegra 6800 (11 speed) but it is $1999 and might be out of budget. But yes this would be my pick of those!

The Lapa 2.0 is pretty much along the lines of Reid Falco Elite, not really much in it. There had an article recently comparing those two with the Polygon. Was a good read with the Lapa 2.0 coming out on top. On sale for $799 so you can't knock that! 10 speed but that's no big deal.

The Cell Akuna would be another very good option which is in-between those two with the carbon frame. Its only 10 speed 105 components but Big Friendly Vegan (BFV) on here gave it a great review if you have a look in the reviews section. at $1299 its a bit of a bargain if you only mind the 10-speed.

Other than that I do like the Giant Defy's, particularly the carbon versions. They just fly! But even the ALUXX versions are pretty good.
If you were going up to $2k for example I'd go one of these Giant Defy Adv 2.

http://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road-b ... /102596574" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Shop around and you might even find them cheaper than that (that was just the first one I looked up).

Giant Carbon frame, 11 speed 105 (5800) disc brakes. To me that's the winner for about $2k if you do have that budget...

So Good luck and just make sure your fitting is right as that makes the biggest difference. Cheers!

Edit: Or even better if you are in Perth and fit one of these sizes!
http://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road-b ... /102560848" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
I like the colours better on the Pro 2. Suppose to be a better frame too (wouldn't be much in it).

Finding cheaper stuff all the time.
e.g
http://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road-b ... /102690716" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
(almost in budget!)

http://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road-b ... /102577507" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
(in Vic just down the road from me!)

So lots of sales on at the moment....

[JdM]

If you're looking at Giants, the TCR SLR 2 is going for around the $1,500 mark at a few retailers as well. Mostly 105 group set like the Defy one, with more 'race' orientated geometry if that interests you.

[GCS15]

Thanks everyone for your comments! I'm in Sydney. Will check out the bikes mentioned above.

[JdM]

Search and filter on http://www.bikeexchange.com.au" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; is great for trawling around for deals.

[davesday]

If you're looking at Giants, the TCR SLR 2 is going for around the $1,500 mark at a few retailers as well. Mostly 105 group set like the Defy one, with more 'race' orientated geometry if that interests you.

Yes +1 for the TCR SLR 2 IF one can find it!

The Defy Advanced 2 is a nice bike (mostly 105 5800 except for non-series crankset and Avid disc mechanical discs). If you're Sydney go to BikeExchange, there's one shop that sells it for $1950. Alternatively Merida Scultura or Ride (4000 - 105 and 5000 - Ultegra models) for near the same price mark. I believe The Scultura 5000 was selling at $1999 at one point but now is $200 more. Scultura is traditional race geometry and Ride is endurance (equivalent to Defy).

[GCS15]

I went ahead and bought the 2015 TCR SLR 2! I hope it's a good purchase!

[GCS15]

In terms of accessories, I'll need a helmet, clipless pedals and SPD shoes. Any recommendations? What about clothing?

[davesday]

I went ahead and bought the 2015 TCR SLR 2! I hope it's a good purchase!

Congrats! It is a good bike.

In terms of accessories, I'll need a helmet, clipless pedals and SPD shoes. Any recommendations? What about clothing?

For helmet, its pretty much a personal deal so find something that offers the best fit while being light and ventilated. Most helmets provide some form of rear adjustment for the head while most higher end models moves up and down for better fitting. They all conform to the same safety standard so more expensive doesn't mean safer.

For pedals and shoes that depends if you're new rider or a seasoned one. I'm pretty much a beginner myself and I really dread clipless. But Shimano's Click'r pedals changed that fear. Its not SPD-SL (3 bolt cleat) but I wanted the MTB ones (SPD 2 bolt) because I want to be able to walk with the shoes. I went with the Shimano T400 which offers double sided SPD. The T420 is dual platform. Flat on one side and SPD on the other so you can still ride with normal shoes. T700 is mostly the same as T400 but lighter by 50g.

If you insist on having road pedals, then Shimano R540 Light Action is a good start. Its same as Click'r which offers lighter click in and out. But unlike Click'r its not multi-directional release. You have to twist ankle outward to release.

For shoes, Pushys is doing some sale (mostly yesteryear products but still good and value for money). They have MAVICs on 50% (although its off RRP) - LINK HERE.

[MattyK]

I am a fan of the Shimano RT series of shoes. Road style but an SPD cleat so you can use two sided pedals, and a rubbered sole so you can walk in them. I have the two strap RT32 but you can also get a higher level RT 82 with a ratchet clip.

As with all bike accessories and parts, it is much cheaper to buy them online than in a retail shop

[davesday]

I am a fan of the Shimano RT series of shoes. Road style but an SPD cleat so you can use two sided pedals, and a rubbered sole so you can walk in them.

Exactly my thoughts too. I went for the Mavics for the road style and the best thing of all the sole is almost flat for good posture.

For those who are interested, Pushys is doing a double offer: Free shipping over $30 (46hr only) + $20 off orders over $120. So really if OP is shopping for accessories, the free shipping don't matter (Pushys has free shipping for orders over $100) but I reckon the $20 off is decent.

Coupon Code
Free shipping for orders over $30: freeship
$20 off for orders over $120: 20off

*I don't think these codes are one time use so I'm sharing with everyone

[cyclotaur]

I am a fan of the Shimano RT series of shoes. Road style but an SPD cleat so you can use two sided pedals, and a rubbered sole so you can walk in them. I have the two strap RT32 but you can also get a higher level RT 82 with a ratchet clip.

As with all bike accessories and parts, it is much cheaper to buy them online than in a retail shop

Yep - RT82s here, great shoes. Both my bikes (CX and roadie) run SPD pedals. I actually got mine at MBC Prahran (in Melbourne) on special so correct fit and cheaper than online prices at the time.

Now I have correct sizing I might go online if/when I get newer ones. I will be sticking with SPDs though, inc the Shimano XT SPD double-sided pedals.

[JdM]

I went ahead and bought the 2015 TCR SLR 2! I hope it's a good purchase!

Nice, Congrats I was having a squiz at it in the Sydney Giant store the other day... Nice alloy bike (I have the carbon version) and I like the orange stripes, it's cool. Hope you got yourself a good deal.

Go post a picture of it in the relevant thread of the Giant sub-forum

In terms of accessories, I'll need a helmet, clipless pedals and SPD shoes. Any recommendations? What about clothing?

*disclaimer* - beginner's experience advice here as opposed to that of a seasoned cyclist

Pedals are reasonably easy, as mentioned above entry level pedals like the Shimano R540 Light Action is a good starting point (I got R550). I wouldn't bother spending lots of $$$ on Dura Ace / Ultegra pedals unless you're already a clip in - clip out ninja. You can upgrade them later.

Helmet and shoes are a little more tricky. Both are very much matters of personal preference when it comes to fit, function and looks. For both items I'd strongly suggest trying on as many as you possibly can. I cruised around shops trying on helmets and wasn't happy until I came across the Kask Mojito. It was the only one I found that felt really comfortable on my head (I've since found some others I quite like since my purchase, but still happy with the Kask). Unless you fall on your head, your helmet should last with you some time, so IMHO better to drop a good amount of $$$ on one you (a) like and (b) fits you well.

Likewise with shoes - although unfortunately I didn't take the same approach as with the helmet. I got a entry carbon sole pair of Shimano road shoes (R107) on the spot when I purchased my bike and pedals. Over the next six months I slowly discovered that while the shoe itself was fine, the last shape just wasn't right for my narrow feet. When I started poking around bike shops and trying on other pairs of shoes I discovered how ill-fitting for my feet they actually were. I've since invested in a more expensive shoe that fits like and absolute glove, so my advice again is to shop around and try on as many pairs as you can to find the best fit. Spend up to whatever your budget will allow as they should also last a while!

[GCS15]

My new acquisition! Apparently it's a very good initial fit according to the bike shop.

Also bought Shimano 105 SPD-SL pedals and Scott shoes.

But I've got no bike shorts