Boardman - Recommendations?

[...simplicity...]

Hi,

Just a quick one. I'm looking at getting a Boardman bike on the cycle to work scheme and was hoping to get some insight on here, preferably from Boardman owners here on the forum.

I had planned on getting the Boardman Road Team 2012/13 bike http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_789209_langId_-1_categoryId_165710?shouldCachePage=true&msg= ...but have just seen this http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_storeId_10001_catalogId_10151_productId_918473_langId_-1_categoryId_165710has now been released?

Which one do you think is better value?

I prefer the look of the original choice, but have a Triathlon coming up in the summer and want the best spec bike for my money really. I have never had a Carbon bike before, and to be honest will more than likely also use the bike for a 20 mile commute daily on roads that can be a bit bumpy - would a carbon frame be a bit lightweight for purpose?

Thanking you all in advance for your insight

Max

[samsbike]

I think the carbon frame will be OK, the issue will be around the wheels and the tire size. I am not sure you can fit 25s to the boardman. Actually looking at the spec they seem to be 36 spoked so should be fine.

I think the wheels are better on the aluminium bike but personally I would get the carbon. Its the same frame as the next one up just with lower specified kit, which can be upgraded as time goes on.

I have friends with both bikes and they love them.

[...simplicity...]

Thanks for the insight. Ended up buying the Aluminium Road Team - partly because I think it will be a bit more durable and partly because I think it looks the business.

Thanks Again