Synapse

Morning all!

I'm on the hunt for a commuter bike/winter bike. My requirements are/were:

"Normal" road bike
Mudguard mounts
Rack mounts
No disc brakes (interesting tech, but early days!)
No cantis (a PITA to maintain IME)
Tigara as a minimum
Not bothered re. steel or aluminium

...all for £1000, or thereabouts.

Found a couple of bikes that tick all the boxes (Trek 1.5, Ridgeback Platinum, Giant Defy), but they left me cold...although the Ridgebacks look pleasingly sensible, so they're an outsider.

Hi,

I'm a relatively newb to the road cycles scene and am looking to pick up my first road bike, with a view to riding a few sportives, few long solo rides without unduly bothering my fickle back.

I'd shortlisted the Specialized Secteur Comp (GBP 1350) but the colour scheme (along with a mild preference for triple over compact) on 2011 model has been keeping me from buying it.

Recently I came across the Cannondale Synapse (GBP 999) and from first viewing it seems to have similar specs to the Secteur Comp - both have alu frame, carbon forks & seat stays, 105 groupset.

Of course, there are differences in zertz inserts, wheels and brakes but I still can't find enough to justify a 35% premium for the Secteur. Wondering if anyone here has the inside info on the big gap in prices.

Many thanks!

Brand new Cannondale Synapse in Lightning White only £850.
This bike was won in an online competition and retails at £1150.
Full spec and pictures here: http://gb.cannondale.com/bikes/09/ce/model-9RAS1T.html
Lovely looking bike but I can't justify two road bikes.