Carbon Fiber Frame Choices - Parlee Z4, Bianchi 928 SL, Etc.

[jadavis]

I am contemplating the purchase of a new bike.

I believe I will move forward with a new carbon fiber frame. Over the last ten years, most of my road miles were on a Calfee Tetra Pro and a Merlin Ti. I am roughly 170 lbs. and 5' 10".

Any feedback from the community comparing Parlee Z4 to other bikes in the Parlee Z4 price range is greatly appreciated.

Does any one have experience riding the Bianchi 928 SL (suggested by a local dealer) as well as a Parlee Z4 or a Calfee?

What other frames warrant serious attention.

My budget will likely be in the $5,000 to $6,500 range.

Thank you for all assistance.

[Smiley]

serotta HSG carbon. Put that one on your short list

[Bill Bove]

I'd get the Parlee.

[Simon Q]

Check out some reviews of the Z4 and the choice is a no brainer. Incredible value.

[David Kirk]

Serotta and Crumpton.

dave

[fierte_poser]

My budget will likely be in the $5,000 to $6,500 range.

For the frameset or for the complete bike?

[jadavis]

Thanks to all for early input.

The $5K to $6.5K range is for a full bike.

The Z4 frame and fork are roughly $3.2K retail.

Plan to build frame out with 10 speed Dura-Ace Shimano or Campi and compact cranks. Recognize budget will be a stretch with good wheels and other needed components.

[PoppaWheelie]

I went from a Tetra Pro to a Crumpton...it was like night and day. At the time, Nick's frame/fork were quite a bit less than Parlee's or Serotta's. Not sure if that is still the case, but I do know that I smile every time I get on that bike...

[Sandy]

serotta HSG carbon. Put that one on your short list

If you race or want an aggressive bike geometry, the HSG carbon will work great, but if you don't want the aforementioned geometry and/or don't race the HSG is too limited, I think. Small trail, 7 cm bb drop, no ht extension, shortish chain stays, little steeper ht angle than in other Serottas,.....


Sandy

[dekindy]

Cervelo RS, Specialized Roubaix.

[zap]

Based on what you've ridden too date, Serotta hsg carbon.

Go to your fav lbs and take one for a spin.

[Climb01742]

I went from a Tetra Pro to a Crumpton...it was like night and day. At the time, Nick's frame/fork were quite a bit less than Parlee's or Serotta's. Not sure if that is still the case, but I do know that I smile every time I get on that bike...

poppa, would you mind telling me more about your crumpton and its ride characteristics? thank you.

[deluxerider]

an Independent Fabrication XS

[bnewt07]

OK, perhaps not strictly relevant but I can only say that my Parlee Z1 is beautifully made and a joy to ride. It has a sublime, almost silky quality..

I know the construction of the Z4 differs a little. If it comes close in performance it is damn good value I think! Reviewers in the UK have rated it.

I have no experience of the other bikes.

Can you not get a test ride since the Z4 comes in stock sizes?

[torquer]

I am contemplating the purchase of a new bike.
I
Any feedback from the community comparing Parlee Z4 to other bikes in the Parlee Z4 price range is greatly appreciated.

What other frames warrant serious attention.


I got a (used) Z4 this spring, after six years of contentment with a Trek 5900.

I don't regret he purchase for an instant, but...

If I had to pay $3.2K retail, I would have to give serious thought to the latest top-shelf Trek for about the same money. I'd also check the sofa cushions for change (and then check the market for kidney donations) to see if I could swing the $4K for a full-custom Crumpton.

Fortunately, for my peace of mind, these weren't options, and I'm enjoying the Z4. My Trek is nice too, though, and while the fit of the two is close (58 cm in my case), you should check both out for yourself to see if one is better.

[Steelhead]

Crumpton. 'nuff said. :)

[mso]

I purchased a Parlee Z3 (used) and LOVE IT. It's my favorite ride. I also have an Ottrott and have had the following

De Rosa steel in the 80's
Legend Ti
Seven Axiom
Calfee Luna Pro

Parlee is still my favorite. Workmenship is excellent.

Ride as many frames as you can and you'll know it once to ride it.