I'm pretty easy on my gear, including my mountain bikes. Hell, I recently sold a 20 year old Breezer with all original XT components that were still working perfectly. So I never worry about something becoming obsolete. But you do make a good argument, NoCoGreg.
Nonetheless, i'm eager to check out the new Diverge. Maybe I'll hunt one down this weekend. Sounds like most LBS's have them already.
sgtrobo wrote:the hover bars were not flared on the Diverge I rode.
The $3k for a 105 was a bit steep, I agree, but I was pretty impressed with the 105, surprisingly so. At least, the 48/32 Praxis was on point, and I had no issues with the 105 at all, but I didn't get a chance to take it off-road so that's a more true test of shifting for my riding style (and why I love SRAM). Besides, $2800 was last year's Diverge w/105
The 2 best deals on the new Diverge list are, in my opinion, the Expert for $4k with the super light SLX24 wheels and Force1 groupset, and the $2100 carbon Sport. Yeah it comes with Tiagra, but that's easily upgradeable for cheap and the Tektro Spyres are top-notch mechanical brakes.
Me? I'm going for the Expert all the way.
I'm leaning toward the carbon Sport myself. Influencing that decision is that I already have carbon wheels to swap out for the stock wheels and a Syntace HiFlex seatpost to replace the stock aluminum post.
I see no reason to upgrade the Tiagra immediately. In fact, I come up with a better gear range for me with 10 speed 12-36 cassette (not stock) in combination with the 32/48 crank than with an 11 speed 11-36. A 122 gear-inch gear is wasted on me. From my experience test riding many bikes with Tiagra 4700, 105 5800 and Ultegra 6800, I don't think you could tell them apart in a blind test.
After a year or so, if I choose to keep the bike, I'd consider converting to either a SRAM or Campagnolo 11 speed hydro group with a real subcompact crank like a 30/46 or 28/44.
I think that the best value is the $1800 Diverge Comp E5. It has the same carbon fork, future shock, Axis wheelset and 105 components as the $3000 Diverge Comp with the carbon frame.
A $1200 premium is a big bump just to get a carbon frame. Specialized is pretty adept at building great aluminum frames. The carbon frame, can't be that special; but it is a bit larger than the E5 aluminum version, since the geometries are not identical
Attached is the diagram of the largest 64cm frame sizes from http://www.bikegeo.net/ (with the Sequoia as a comparison).
[QUOTE=Erik_A]I think that the best value is the $1800 Diverge Comp E5. It has the same carbon fork, future shock, Axis wheelset and 105 components as the $3000 Diverge Comp with the carbon frame.[end quote]\n\nCompletely agree! I hadn't looked at that model as I've been shopping to move up to \nUltegra from my aluminum 105 equipped Cannondale Synapse (w/ 32c). I agree that's the best deal.\n\nCan the future shock be run with any normal stem? I currently run a 120mm 40deg riser stem on my 51 Synapse. Can the future shock take standard stems?
JGamm wrote:Does she actually need a women's specific bike? It sounds like the frames are the same through the range of sizes so unless she is very short and needs a frame size that is smaller than what they offer in the men's version they should be comparable minus the saddle and crank length.
I spoke with Specialized last week while helping out a female friend whose bike had been stolen (and she ended up going with the Diverge Comp alu); the only differences between the men and women's bikes are the saddles, handlebars, and colors. I think I'm getting one in September.
"FutureShock itself is a cartridge system placed within the steerer tube and provides 20mm of travel. The unit contains three springs, and the upper spring can be changed, with three options available with varying spring rates, so the rider can tweak the feel according to personal preference and the road surfaces on which they typically ride."
[QUOTE=Animal494]
Erik_A wrote:I think that the best value is the $1800 Diverge Comp E5. It has the same carbon fork, future shock, Axis wheelset and 105 components as the $3000 Diverge Comp with the carbon frame.[end quote] Completely agree! I hadn't looked at that model as I've been shopping to move up to Ultegra from my aluminum 105 equipped Cannondale Synapse (w/ 32c). I agree that's the best deal. Can the future shock be run with any normal stem? I currently run a 120mm 40deg riser stem on my 51 Synapse. Can the future shock take standard stems?
I have been pretty happy with my Ridley X-Trail for gravel riding. It served me well in some various areas and the DK200 as well. Biggest gripe was the tire clearance, especially the rear. Reading up on the Diverge, I really like its specs. I've been wanting to go to a 1x - Love it on my MTBs. The future shock is appealing for some of the roads/trails I ride. At my age, 51, I appreciate a little plush to my ride when possible. So, mine is on order, an S-Works edition. Should have it in by the end of the summer in time for some gravel events this fall.
I stopped in the LBS this weekend to check out the Diverge in person. They didn't have anything near my size, so no chance to ride one, but they are nice! Unfortunately for me (or fortunately for my wallet) they can't get their hands on my size any time soon.
They seem to be pretty similar to the Roubaix with a slightly taller head tube and more tire clearance. Overall, a very road-capable bike with some added gravel ability. I want one!
got the go-ahead from the Minister of Finance to go for a Diverge. Looking at the Expert, probably will add a power meter as my only add-on. Quite a happy camper.
does that crazy low bottom bracket bother anyone? I get enough pedal smack with 70mm drop. I tried last years diverge and it was too low - this year's is even lower.
I guess it is the old stability vs agility debate...
KeithC wrote: I don't think it is technically ordering. Basically the shop it's in specific size that they want on the shipment. It's in Lawrence Kansas.
Gotcha...I have the word in with the manager at my main local shop to notify me when they do come in.
I did get to test ride the aluminum version with the future shock last week. And it's fantastic. Night and day difference from my Tarmac. Geometry is so relaxed and the shock really soaks up the bumps, curbs, pot holes, etc. but doesn't at all feel awkward when on smooth flat roads. The cable disc brakes were a little strange and slow to engage (which I understand is normal for road bike disc brakes). I'm hoping the hydraulic brakes on the Expert are a bit more aggressive and more like a hydraulic on a mt. bike.
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