Raleigh USA Bicycle Company C700

Price Paid:  $599.00 at Action in New Port R

Model Year:
2005

Favorite Ride:
After work stress reliever

Bike Setup:
Different seat for more comfort, GPS, Cateye with HRM, handlebar extensions.

Summary:
I love my 2005 Raleigh C700. It is the last year made and now it is the Route series. Switching from a mountain bike in the flat lands of Florida was a smart move, but I could not get use to a normal road bike. This bike is built for some speed yet you still have some upright position. It is a day and night change between a mountain bike and this hybrid. At 6'3" , 215 pounds, over 300 miles in less than a month; it has been a great ride for money.

Strengths:
Fairly light weight, good quality for the price, higher than normal end Shimano components... it is a great start on a better quality bike and not breaking the bank.

Weaknesses:
Breaking spokes... I am not fond of the Alex rims. Sure, 215 pounds does not help but when you on the pedals and pump hard... and hear a ping! They have stayed true, but I think I'll put a set of Mavic Ksyrium Elite Clinchers on; besides I'll get some more speed going from 28 to 23. Only reason for the "4" is the rims... tires are great.

Similar Products Used:
OLD 1980s Mountain Bike rebuilt three times.

Price Paid:  $519.00 at Keswick Cycle Co.

Model Year:
2005

Favorite Ride:
leaving work

Bike Setup:
All stock (Shimano 105,Truvativ,Ritchey,Tektro) except for M505 clipless pedals swapped for alloy platforms.

Summary:
Actually 2005 was the last year for this bike. The C200,500,700 line was replaced by the Route 1,24,66 line in 2006.

I orginally bought a C500 for $399, but I didn't like its Sora derailleur or how stiff the bike felt. For not much more, I upgraded to the C700 and got a much better 105 rear derailleur and a carbon fork (among other various upgrades). The C700 rides faster as well. I've been quite happy.

Strengths:
Shimano 105 / Truvativ Touro drivetrain shifts quiet and smooth. Carbon fork is forgiving on rough pavement. A great city commuter bike. Fantastic closeout price for components.

Weaknesses:
Brake levers tend to rattle while riding. Low-end clipless pedals not worth dealing with.

Similar Products Used:
Jamis Coda Sport (great bike, but wasn't on sale), Raleigh C500 (stiff ride and not as a good a deal considering its components)

Price Paid:  $700.00 at Great Lakes Cycles

Model Year:
2004

Favorite Ride:
long rambles

Bike Setup:
Mostly stock-Shimnao 105 Drivetrain, Truvativ crank, Alex rims, carbon fork. Added back rack and often carry large panniers.

Summary:
I think Raleigh stopped making this bike after '04. Shame because it is an amazingly versatile bike. Great spec's, good looks and fast smooth ride.

Strengths:
Performs well as a road bike, touring bike, light cyclocross and also as commuter. Excellent price for component group.

Weaknesses:
Had to replace seat(but that is standard), also a bit of toe overlap on 50 cm

Similar Products Used:
None. Have my old steel 10 speed and Giant mountain bike