When I saw the subject, first thought was "well, duh!"
Probably a stretch, but if you can extend your budget out to $1500, there's a *lot* of good options, including 105 equipped carbon frames
![Smile :)](./images/smilies/smile.gif)
(Giant Defy composite and Giant TCR Advanced). These will work a whole lot better in the long term, and be a better match for doing triathlons
Other than that, the Norco Valence A1 appears to carry a few 105 components, and is marginally above $1000.
https://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road- ... /102717076
maybe a Scott Contessa Speedster
https://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road- ... /102163183
https://www.bikeexchange.com.au/a/road- ... /102264833
Don't get too hung up on Women specific bikes, as a shop should be able to fit a "mens" bike to female.. assuming the underlying frame size is correct. Miss V rides an Avanti Vivace, which is a mens frame (female equivalent is the Vitale)
Vilante wrote:Not for me though
I've started looking but it's like starting again so I thought I'd ask here in case someone has had some experience.
My wife wants a bike for her birthday. She wants a racer, or at least something with drop bars so she looks pro. She will use it to commute but also does a shorter tri a few times a year so wants something nicer for that.
I'm looking to spend anywhere from $500-$1000 but it seems that the cheaper ladies bikes all come with Shimano Claris which I think is an 8 speed, 3 chain ring system.
Would be great if I could get her into Tiagra.
I feel like it should be new as it's a present but I might get a much better bike looking at second hand.
Any ideas?