I know the pedigree the CAAD lineup has and how well it is loved on WW, and for good reasons. It really is a great bike. But I must say I am intrigued by the new Allez Smartweld frameset. It sounds like Specialized finally put in the resources and R&D to do what Cannondale has been doing for some time now. I am interested in the Allez because it is a little different than the usual CAAD you see around. Now that Specialized has gone with internal rear brake cable, I can finally deal with the looks of the compact frame. Before when the rear brake cable went under the top tube, I just thought it looked 'goofy.'
So the Allez frameset is MSRP $880 and I think I can get it for $800. The CAAD10 frameset is $1000, but I know you can get them on eBay for around $800 new, but not sure if I want to go outside the dealer on a frame purchase. So if I go through the dealer the price is in favor of the Allez, if I go through eBay it is going to be equal.
I believe the weight between the two framesets should be close to each other (1600-1650g).
Anyone have extensive time riding both? I know some reports have said the BB on the Allez Smartweld is flexy? But I thought Specialized said it was stiffer than the SL3 in the BB?
Here is a cool video that I enjoyed watching about the design and creation of the Allez Smartweld.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNx6mufEWcI