Quote:
Originally Posted by Johnny199r
Stupid question:
I have an entry level Cannondale Synapse Soira.
If I bought a better road bike (ie non entry level), how much of a boost would I get speed wise when riding? minimal or more than minimal?
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How old are we talking for the Synapse? Is it carbon or aluminum?
Overall, it is probably still a very good bike….I’ve ridden older model carbon Synapse’s several times as rental bikes, and there is nothing wrong with them. A new bike isn’t likely to give you some massive, noticeable difference in speed. Even things that might give you an extra km/h or 2 aren’t really noticeable unless you’re doing some kind of racing, or at least enjoying comparing your PRs on strava or whatever.
Now, if you want to upgrade to a mid level road bike, you’ll probably find several things about it that you would enjoy, but it might not be that much pure speed.
As has been said, tires might be the biggest upgrade for a reasonable cost. They can make for a more comfortable, faster ride. Great point above about clothes….loose flappy clothing makes a huge difference. Most people don’t realize how much extra work they’re having to do (or how much slower they’re going) if they don’t have tight fitting kit.
One last comment for someone thinking of buying a road bike, I would suggest for most to get one that fits into the gravel bike category. There are now several that are light and aero like a good road bike, but have room for wider tires. You give up very little compared to an average road bike, but get a bunch of flexibility by being able to put wider tires on and go just about anywhere off pavement.