Bike Overlords, Please Help Me Choose between These ≤$3k USD Bikes
Hi all,
I live in the U.S. and am looking to buy my first road bike for competitive cycling/triathalon. I have been learning about road bikes for a few months now and am ready to spend up to $3000 on a bike. I've budgeted separately for pedals, gear, etc., so this would be for the bike itself. Trying to choose between the following, but I'm open to other suggestions too; all of these have carbon frames, Shimano 105 components, and disc brakes, but all of these specs are negotiable for me:
- 2025 FELT AR | Advanced | 105
- 2025 FELT FR Expert 105 Di2
- 2026 Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4
- 2023 Trek Émonda SL 5
- 2025 Trek Madone SL 5 Gen 8
- 2025 Giant Defy Advanced 2
- 2023 Cannondale SuperSix EVO 4 (105 Mechanical)
- 2024 Cannondale SuperSix EVO 3 (105 Di2)
- 2025 Polygon Strattos S7X - 105 Di2
Could you guys give your thoughts? Based on research so far, I would say I'm leaning towards one of the Cannondales.
I've also looked on resale markets (FB, eBay, etc.) for used bikes but have really had trouble finding a worthwhile deal in my size as a tall rider (looking in the 61–63cm range). Thank you, everyone.