Specialized Sirrus Expert

Price Paid:  $0.00

Bike Setup:
9 speed cassette. Cane Creek bar ends. Specialized Comp computer. SPD-R road pedals.

Summary:
I love this bike. It is fast as well as comfortable. I added ergo bar ends to allow for changing hand positions as well as SPD-R clipless pedals. It is a solid bike that has not given me any problems. The only shortfall, at least for me, is that I have so enjoyed riding since I bought it that I now think I am ready for road bars so I may swap out for a "Sequoia-like" configuration up front.

Strengths:
Price. Comfort.

Weaknesses:
Limited hand positions (fixed by adding bar ends). Cheap brakes.

Price Paid:  $1658.00 at (CDN)

Favorite Ride:
Uphill until there are no hills left

Bike Setup:
Stock, with some mean platforms in place of clipless.

Summary:
I'm reviewing a Sirrus Pro here. I requested a section be added for it, but I recieved no response and one didn't show up. It's very similar to the Elite anyway. I've enjoyed ripping around town on this bike and getting fit, it's good for the task, but the quality falls a little short of a $1650 bike. It's fast uphills, and pretty good on the flats. You'll blow by anyone riding a cross country bike on the pavement. Specialized's customer service is exceptional, but I eventually grew tired of contacting them over problems.

Strengths:
Light (22lbs), nice rear shifter, nice wheels. Unremarkable, but durable brushed finish. A perfect balance of road performance, and those elusive courier looks.

Weaknesses:
The body geometry grips must be at a perfect angle or they'll do more harm than good. So if you change the stem angle, well, enjoy rotating the grips. The relaxed frame geometry makes it difficult to "put the hammer down" and sprint. If you've owned a specialized before, you'll know these things are prone to squeaking and complaining at rotating points. I've yet to figure out how to quiet my back wheel. The suspension seatpost has some slop side-to-side, (your seat will rotate back and forth while you're pedalling.)

Similar Products Used:
'02 Sirrus Elite

Price Paid:  $0.00

Bike Setup:
Stock Sirrus Expert

Summary:
Excellent performer. Solid performance for a reasonable price. Definitely a road bike in terms of handling and performance and relatively light weight. Easy to ride for long distances. An nice blend of road bike manners and a refined ride.

Strengths:
Quality feel, good handling, very smooth shifting, nice seat, carbon fiber fork, good tires.

Weaknesses:
24 speeds are good and they're a useful range, but 27 would be nice.

Similar Products Used:
Various road bikes.