Learsport

[M2cycler]

I've posted it this on equipment, but i'll do it again here for more
relevance.

i need advice on buying a new bike.

has anyone extensively ridden either the 2004 learsport 8000 or 8500.
they both have columbus zonal tubing, and the 8500 has the addition of a
carbon wishbone seatstay. they feature 105 and ultegra respectively and
are $1500 and $2200 AU

is the fact that the frames are columbus tubing enough of a reason to
consider them decent.

one thing i noticed is that the down tube did not flatten out toward the
bottom bracket to provide stiffness, is this an issue.

please check them at www.learsport.com and give me some advice,
the other bikes on my shortlist are the 2004 specialized sport and
2003 elite.

thanks



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[its_stuart]

Mate I would go the specialised. Learsport is a bit dodgy. It's the kind
of bike you would pickup at Kmart :)



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[its_stuart]

Mate I would go the specialised. Learsport is a bit dodgy. It's the kind
of bike you would pickup at Kmart :)



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[amirm]

M2cycler wrote:
> I've posted it this on equipment, but i'll do it again here for more
> relevance.
> i need advice on buying a new bike.
> has anyone extensively ridden either the 2004 learsport 8000 or 8500.
> they both have columbus zonal tubing, and the 8500 has the addition of a
> carbon wishbone seatstay. they feature 105 and ultegra respectively and
> are $1500 and $2200 AU
> is the fact that the frames are columbus tubing enough of a reason to
> consider them decent.
> one thing i noticed is that the down tube did not flatten out toward the
> bottom bracket to provide stiffness, is this an issue.
> please check them at www.learsport.com and give me some advice,
> the other bikes on my shortlist are the 2004 specialized sport and
> 2003 elite.
> thanks

I bought a 2003 Lear 8000 1.5 months ago. My frame is not the Columbus
tubing, but is double-butted 7005 tubing.

I don'y know for sure who makes the frames for LearSport, but by visual
comparison, I'm pretty convinced it's likely to be whoever building
Merida frames.

There is a fact for LearSport at the moment to keep in mind: They don't
seem to be a dedicated bicycle company as many others are. That means
that they probably don't do any R&D work for their bikes. The
implication is that the bike components already available in the market
are used to creat their bikes. Now it's up to the consumer to evaluate
any contender against their criteria.

As I said in a different post before, I got my Lear 8000 with WH540
wheels for $1550. That's equal to the price of the 105 groupset plus
those wheels. Anything else on that bike is, hence, a bonus, including
the frame. With my bike mechanical knowledge that's enough to build
another bike with those components, this was a sweet deal.

In addition, I have been very pleased with the bike so far, nothing that
would be specific to the brand of bike has been telegraphed yet. For a
commuting/training bike, I think I'm happy with my choice. It wouldn't
matter where you can buy a good product; KMart or elsewhere.





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[amirm]

M2cycler wrote:
> I've posted it this on equipment, but i'll do it again here for more
> relevance.
> i need advice on buying a new bike.
> has anyone extensively ridden either the 2004 learsport 8000 or 8500.
> they both have columbus zonal tubing, and the 8500 has the addition of a
> carbon wishbone seatstay. they feature 105 and ultegra respectively and
> are $1500 and $2200 AU
> is the fact that the frames are columbus tubing enough of a reason to
> consider them decent.
> one thing i noticed is that the down tube did not flatten out toward the
> bottom bracket to provide stiffness, is this an issue.
> please check them at www.learsport.com and give me some advice,
> the other bikes on my shortlist are the 2004 specialized sport and
> 2003 elite.
> thanks

I bought a 2003 Lear 8000 1.5 months ago. My frame is not the Columbus
tubing, but is double-butted 7005 tubing.

I don'y know for sure who makes the frames for LearSport, but by visual
comparison, I'm pretty convinced it's likely to be whoever building
Merida frames.

There is a fact for LearSport at the moment to keep in mind: They don't
seem to be a dedicated bicycle company as many others are. That means
that they probably don't do any R&D work for their bikes. The
implication is that the bike components already available in the market
are used to creat their bikes. Now it's up to the consumer to evaluate
any contender against their criteria.

As I said in a different post before, I got my Lear 8000 with WH540
wheels for $1550. That's equal to the price of the 105 groupset plus
those wheels. Anything else on that bike is, hence, a bonus, including
the frame. With my bike mechanical knowledge that's enough to build
another bike with those components, this was a sweet deal.

In addition, I have been very pleased with the bike so far, nothing that
would be specific to the brand of bike has been telegraphed yet. For a
commuting/training bike, I think I'm happy with my choice. It wouldn't
matter where you can buy a good product; KMart or elsewhere.





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[its_stuart]

nice come-back amirm, subtle and concise :)

Learsport frames were **** last time I looked. Perhaps that has changed.
I shall take another look though I think I would feel alot safer in the
forest if I was on a specialised



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[its_stuart]

nice come-back amirm, subtle and concise :)

Learsport frames were **** last time I looked. Perhaps that has changed.
I shall take another look though I think I would feel alot safer in the
forest if I was on a specialised



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[its_stuart]

M2cycler wrote:
> Thanks for the advice people. Amirm, how did you manage $1550 for the
> 8000 plus the wh540, it is advertised at $1699.
> its stuart, what made the frames SH1T in ur opinion. was it the
> heaviness or just the fact it was made of noname 7005
> now that the frames are triple butted columbus i am feeling that they
> would be ok




It's been a while since Ive had a look at Learsport and i must admit
they look to have lifted their game. A friend of mine had one and
flogged out the bottom-bracket in no time. Having said that i'd love
to have one for the weekend and see how it handles 4 or 5 hours of
hard riding.



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[its_stuart]

M2cycler wrote:
> Thanks for the advice people. Amirm, how did you manage $1550 for the
> 8000 plus the wh540, it is advertised at $1699.
> its stuart, what made the frames SH1T in ur opinion. was it the
> heaviness or just the fact it was made of noname 7005
> now that the frames are triple butted columbus i am feeling that they
> would be ok




It's been a while since Ive had a look at Learsport and i must admit
they look to have lifted their game. A friend of mine had one and
flogged out the bottom-bracket in no time. Having said that i'd love
to have one for the weekend and see how it handles 4 or 5 hours of
hard riding.



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[amirm]

its_stuart wrote:
> nice come-back amirm, subtle and concise :)
> Learsport frames were **** last time I looked. Perhaps that has changed.
> I shall take another look though I think I would feel alot safer in the
> forest if I was on a specialised

I didn't mean to get pushy with my opinion. I agree with you about
better quality and feel that we get we reputable bikes. But mate, they
ask for their premium price tags. LearSport frames, IMHO, don't get
any close to, say, a Cannondale, but the equivalent Cannondale with
pure 105 would cost at least three times more. I guess everyone may
come to a different balanced decision in money versus practicality and
quality plot.

So you may still be disappointed in LearSport frames, because I don't
know how high your standard would be. One thing is for sure, and that's
there are no free lunches. I would say, a novice rider, may realise
he/she needs to go back a few times before the bike is reasonably tuned.
In Canberra, for instance, the location of LearSport shop is not very
handy. I have had to spent some time tuning my own bike. That's why I
talk about the hardware prices (since I don't worry about the labour or
service or related trips to the bike shop).





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[amirm]

its_stuart wrote:
> nice come-back amirm, subtle and concise :)
> Learsport frames were **** last time I looked. Perhaps that has changed.
> I shall take another look though I think I would feel alot safer in the
> forest if I was on a specialised

I didn't mean to get pushy with my opinion. I agree with you about
better quality and feel that we get we reputable bikes. But mate, they
ask for their premium price tags. LearSport frames, IMHO, don't get
any close to, say, a Cannondale, but the equivalent Cannondale with
pure 105 would cost at least three times more. I guess everyone may
come to a different balanced decision in money versus practicality and
quality plot.

So you may still be disappointed in LearSport frames, because I don't
know how high your standard would be. One thing is for sure, and that's
there are no free lunches. I would say, a novice rider, may realise
he/she needs to go back a few times before the bike is reasonably tuned.
In Canberra, for instance, the location of LearSport shop is not very
handy. I have had to spent some time tuning my own bike. That's why I
talk about the hardware prices (since I don't worry about the labour or
service or related trips to the bike shop).





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[amirm]

M2cycler wrote:
> Thanks for the advice people. Amirm, how did you manage $1550 for the
> 8000 plus the wh540, it is advertised at $1699.
> its stuart, what made the frames SH1T in ur opinion. was it the
> heaviness or just the fact it was made of noname 7005
> now that the frames are triple butted columbus i am feeling that they
> would be ok

I just asked for a better price nicely, and they agreed because I
was nice! :)

But seriously, it is a little bit of story. First I purchased a Lear
7700 when they had their end of the season sale (that did not cover Lear
8000 and above). Then, I decided to get the Lear 8000, and that was when
the new 2004 stock were introduced. So that was the best time to haggle,
and I asked for a discount on the older stock. The changeover price
mattered to me at the time. Besides, they gave me a $100 credit, because
I did not take the seat post and the saddle.

Frankly, I was fascinated with the price of the grouppo, and did not
care really for the Columbus tubing or the fact that the new frames
were in "compact" style. I guess a $250 discount overweighed these
two features.

I have a more luxurious road bike that I built 2 years ago. That bike
hangs from my garage wall, and gets a spin every now and then when I go
for show rides with friends. It satisfies my darker side every time I
look at it, or play with it. Having that, the second bike would be more
down to Earth ;)






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[amirm]

M2cycler wrote:
> Thanks for the advice people. Amirm, how did you manage $1550 for the
> 8000 plus the wh540, it is advertised at $1699.
> its stuart, what made the frames SH1T in ur opinion. was it the
> heaviness or just the fact it was made of noname 7005
> now that the frames are triple butted columbus i am feeling that they
> would be ok

I just asked for a better price nicely, and they agreed because I
was nice! :)

But seriously, it is a little bit of story. First I purchased a Lear
7700 when they had their end of the season sale (that did not cover Lear
8000 and above). Then, I decided to get the Lear 8000, and that was when
the new 2004 stock were introduced. So that was the best time to haggle,
and I asked for a discount on the older stock. The changeover price
mattered to me at the time. Besides, they gave me a $100 credit, because
I did not take the seat post and the saddle.

Frankly, I was fascinated with the price of the grouppo, and did not
care really for the Columbus tubing or the fact that the new frames
were in "compact" style. I guess a $250 discount overweighed these
two features.

I have a more luxurious road bike that I built 2 years ago. That bike
hangs from my garage wall, and gets a spin every now and then when I go
for show rides with friends. It satisfies my darker side every time I
look at it, or play with it. Having that, the second bike would be more
down to Earth ;)






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[M2cycler]

thanks for the advice people, I just purchased the lear 8000 today,
red/black 52.5. my first sti bike. hooray.

complaints i have are the slightly malformed ritchey stem (the handlebar
isnt horizontal when bike is upright, also when stem is alligned with
wheel, handlebar is not perpendicular), and the dodgy welds. i hope i
can exchange the stem but i doubt i can do much about the welds. also
one of the stickers on the fork had a ridge in it. my attempts to
rectify resulted in more crappiness.

took it on a about a 40km ride and thought it was pretty good, no speedo
yet as i have no more funds (anyone want to donate an unused cycle comp
to a no good cause).

we'll see how it goes with the bunch on saturday.

compared to my old bike (perigee) it has quicker steering and is a bit
lighter. also i don't feel as natural on it, hopefully that will come
over time. more updates coming, if u can stand them.



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[M2cycler]

thanks for the advice people, I just purchased the lear 8000 today,
red/black 52.5. my first sti bike. hooray.

complaints i have are the slightly malformed ritchey stem (the handlebar
isnt horizontal when bike is upright, also when stem is alligned with
wheel, handlebar is not perpendicular), and the dodgy welds. i hope i
can exchange the stem but i doubt i can do much about the welds. also
one of the stickers on the fork had a ridge in it. my attempts to
rectify resulted in more crappiness.

took it on a about a 40km ride and thought it was pretty good, no speedo
yet as i have no more funds (anyone want to donate an unused cycle comp
to a no good cause).

we'll see how it goes with the bunch on saturday.

compared to my old bike (perigee) it has quicker steering and is a bit
lighter. also i don't feel as natural on it, hopefully that will come
over time. more updates coming, if u can stand them.



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[Andrew Swan]

M2cycler wrote:
> thanks for the advice people, I just purchased the lear 8000 today,
> red/black 52.5. my first sti bike. hooray.
>
> complaints i have are the slightly malformed ritchey stem (the handlebar
> isnt horizontal when bike is upright, also when stem is alligned with
> wheel, handlebar is not perpendicular), and the dodgy welds. i hope i
> can exchange the stem but i doubt i can do much about the welds. also
> one of the stickers on the fork had a ridge in it. my attempts to
> rectify resulted in more crappiness.
>
<snip>
>
> over time. more updates coming, if u can stand them.

Don't they have a deal whereby you can send it back within 30 days if
you're not happy with it?

&roo

P.S. Please do keep us posted on how it goes.

[Andrew Swan]

M2cycler wrote:
> thanks for the advice people, I just purchased the lear 8000 today,
> red/black 52.5. my first sti bike. hooray.
>
> complaints i have are the slightly malformed ritchey stem (the handlebar
> isnt horizontal when bike is upright, also when stem is alligned with
> wheel, handlebar is not perpendicular), and the dodgy welds. i hope i
> can exchange the stem but i doubt i can do much about the welds. also
> one of the stickers on the fork had a ridge in it. my attempts to
> rectify resulted in more crappiness.
>
<snip>
>
> over time. more updates coming, if u can stand them.

Don't they have a deal whereby you can send it back within 30 days if
you're not happy with it?

&roo

P.S. Please do keep us posted on how it goes.

[hippy]

"M2cycler" > wrote in message
...
> complaints i have are the slightly malformed ritchey stem (the
handlebar

I'd definately get this swapped. Who knows how it could have
been bent/damaaged in manufacter or shipping?

> wheel, handlebar is not perpendicular), and the dodgy welds. i hope i
> can exchange the stem but i doubt i can do much about the welds. also

What do you mean dodgy welds? Where and what's wrong with them?

> one of the stickers on the fork had a ridge in it. my attempts to
> rectify resulted in more crappiness.

hehe been there done that (over and over again - i never learn).
When in doubt, rip it out (or off). I've removed stickers and
badges from various bikes (and my car!) and they often make
the vehicle look nicer, either because the stickers looked crap
anyway, or just the way it gives cleaner lines to the bike/car.
You'll have a slightly more unique bike too. Don't be scared :-)

> took it on a about a 40km ride and thought it was pretty good,
> no speedo yet as i have no more funds (anyone want to donate
> an unused cycle comp to a no good cause).

Where are you?

> over time. more updates coming, if u can stand them.

We can stand them.

hippy

[hippy]

"M2cycler" > wrote in message
...
> complaints i have are the slightly malformed ritchey stem (the
handlebar

I'd definately get this swapped. Who knows how it could have
been bent/damaaged in manufacter or shipping?

> wheel, handlebar is not perpendicular), and the dodgy welds. i hope i
> can exchange the stem but i doubt i can do much about the welds. also

What do you mean dodgy welds? Where and what's wrong with them?

> one of the stickers on the fork had a ridge in it. my attempts to
> rectify resulted in more crappiness.

hehe been there done that (over and over again - i never learn).
When in doubt, rip it out (or off). I've removed stickers and
badges from various bikes (and my car!) and they often make
the vehicle look nicer, either because the stickers looked crap
anyway, or just the way it gives cleaner lines to the bike/car.
You'll have a slightly more unique bike too. Don't be scared :-)

> took it on a about a 40km ride and thought it was pretty good,
> no speedo yet as i have no more funds (anyone want to donate
> an unused cycle comp to a no good cause).

Where are you?

> over time. more updates coming, if u can stand them.

We can stand them.

hippy

[M2cycler]

Andrew Swan wrote:
> M2cycler wrote:
> > thanks for the advice people, I just purchased the lear 8000 today,
> > red/black 52.5. my first sti bike. hooray.
> >
> > complaints i have are the slightly malformed ritchey stem (the
> > handlebar isnt horizontal when bike is upright, also when stem is
> > alligned with wheel, handlebar is not perpendicular), and the dodgy
> > welds. i hope i can exchange the stem but i doubt i can do much about
> > the welds. also one of the stickers on the fork had a ridge in it. my
> > attempts to rectify resulted in more crappiness.
> >
> <snip>
> >
> > over time. more updates coming, if u can stand them.
> Don't they have a deal whereby you can send it back within 30 days if
> you're not happy with it?
> &roo
> P.S. Please do keep us posted on how it goes.



yeah they do have a 30 day money back or exchange warranty. i'll see
what they say. i don't really want them to have to replace the whole
bike though which is what they would have to do if i want 100 percent
looking welds. i'm sure the welds are plenty strong, just the aesthetics
are a little off. the stem should be no problem to swap.

took it for about 50km to bobbin head. performed like a bike should i
guess. honestly i can't tell ride difference between it and old chromo
bike i.e. it bounces about the same amount. getting used to the sti's,
love shifting while standing.



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[M2cycler]

Andrew Swan wrote:
> M2cycler wrote:
> > thanks for the advice people, I just purchased the lear 8000 today,
> > red/black 52.5. my first sti bike. hooray.
> >
> > complaints i have are the slightly malformed ritchey stem (the
> > handlebar isnt horizontal when bike is upright, also when stem is
> > alligned with wheel, handlebar is not perpendicular), and the dodgy
> > welds. i hope i can exchange the stem but i doubt i can do much about
> > the welds. also one of the stickers on the fork had a ridge in it. my
> > attempts to rectify resulted in more crappiness.
> >
> <snip>
> >
> > over time. more updates coming, if u can stand them.
> Don't they have a deal whereby you can send it back within 30 days if
> you're not happy with it?
> &roo
> P.S. Please do keep us posted on how it goes.



yeah they do have a 30 day money back or exchange warranty. i'll see
what they say. i don't really want them to have to replace the whole
bike though which is what they would have to do if i want 100 percent
looking welds. i'm sure the welds are plenty strong, just the aesthetics
are a little off. the stem should be no problem to swap.

took it for about 50km to bobbin head. performed like a bike should i
guess. honestly i can't tell ride difference between it and old chromo
bike i.e. it bounces about the same amount. getting used to the sti's,
love shifting while standing.



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[thebow]

M2cycler wrote:
> yeah they do have a 30 day money back or exchange warranty. i'll see
> what they say. i don't really want them to have to replace the whole
> bike though which is what they would have to do if i want 100 percent
> looking welds. i'm sure the welds are plenty strong, just the aesthetics
> are a little off. the stem should be no problem to swap.
> took it for about 50km to bobbin head. performed like a bike should i
> guess. honestly i can't tell ride difference between it and old chromo
> bike i.e. it bounces about the same amount. getting used to the sti's,
> love shifting while standing.



That is one Bike am considering so definately post more updates.

I think the problem with the welds is that they are a bit obvious is
all. The bikes look a little rougher than your average cannondale, orbea
or specialized but they seem to represent good value.

Really I don't see how they could be that bad, they are made of and have
all the good stuff so they can't be that bad.

I would assume all they need is a little tweaking as they don't really
put much effort into fitting the bike to you.

My plan is to get one, ride the bum of it and it's it's crap after a
couple of weeks return it and get my money back according to their
guarantee.

Not sure whether to go lear 8000 or 8500...105 or ultegra?



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[thebow]

M2cycler wrote:
> yeah they do have a 30 day money back or exchange warranty. i'll see
> what they say. i don't really want them to have to replace the whole
> bike though which is what they would have to do if i want 100 percent
> looking welds. i'm sure the welds are plenty strong, just the aesthetics
> are a little off. the stem should be no problem to swap.
> took it for about 50km to bobbin head. performed like a bike should i
> guess. honestly i can't tell ride difference between it and old chromo
> bike i.e. it bounces about the same amount. getting used to the sti's,
> love shifting while standing.



That is one Bike am considering so definately post more updates.

I think the problem with the welds is that they are a bit obvious is
all. The bikes look a little rougher than your average cannondale, orbea
or specialized but they seem to represent good value.

Really I don't see how they could be that bad, they are made of and have
all the good stuff so they can't be that bad.

I would assume all they need is a little tweaking as they don't really
put much effort into fitting the bike to you.

My plan is to get one, ride the bum of it and it's it's crap after a
couple of weeks return it and get my money back according to their
guarantee.

Not sure whether to go lear 8000 or 8500...105 or ultegra?



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[hippy]

"thebow" > wrote in message
...
> I think the problem with the welds is that they are a bit obvious is
> all. The bikes look a little rougher than your average cannondale,
orbea
> or specialized but they seem to represent good value.

Obvious welds are not generally a problem. I've seen some great
looking machines with super chunky looking welds. I think strength
has more to do with the actual bonding that has occurred - looks
really don't mean much here. Someone with more metal knowledge
will correct me I'm sure. Invisible welds may just indicate dodgy
welding that has been filed clean.

> Not sure whether to go lear 8000 or 8500...105 or ultegra?

What's the price difference? Website?

All I can say is that I like Ultegra, but I've never ridden 105
so have no grounds for comparison. Hell, I still like downtube
shifters and remove the gears from a perfectly good 7speed! :-)

hippy

[hippy]

"thebow" > wrote in message
...
> I think the problem with the welds is that they are a bit obvious is
> all. The bikes look a little rougher than your average cannondale,
orbea
> or specialized but they seem to represent good value.

Obvious welds are not generally a problem. I've seen some great
looking machines with super chunky looking welds. I think strength
has more to do with the actual bonding that has occurred - looks
really don't mean much here. Someone with more metal knowledge
will correct me I'm sure. Invisible welds may just indicate dodgy
welding that has been filed clean.

> Not sure whether to go lear 8000 or 8500...105 or ultegra?

What's the price difference? Website?

All I can say is that I like Ultegra, but I've never ridden 105
so have no grounds for comparison. Hell, I still like downtube
shifters and remove the gears from a perfectly good 7speed! :-)

hippy

[hippy]

> "thebow" > wrote in message
> > Not sure whether to go lear 8000 or 8500...105 or ultegra?
>
> What's the price difference? Website?

www.learsport.com.au duh! :-P

The 8500 has carbon post and stem and a different frame
with carbon seatstays. It also has the Shimano wheels as
opposed to the more traditional Alex rims and of course
full Ultegra versus 105. $1500 versus $2200

I don't know anything about carbon stays, but a big,
paranoid guy like me worries a bit about carbon
stems and less-so carbon seatposts. :-)

Personally I like the look of the Shimano wheels but
I don't like the low spoke count (big guy paranoia
again) and I don't like the (apparently) $10 spoke
replacement cost. Proprietary gear sucks for
replacement too unless they are really well supported,
but I guess Shimano is.
I don't suppose you can test ride the 105 bike versus
the Ultegra? That would be the deciding point for me,
how the carbon stays handled and how much better
Ultegra felt, if at all.

According to cecilwalker's website the difference in
price between 105 and Ultegra is less than $200, so
I'd be hesitant to pay $700 for the "extras" you are
getting. Seems you are paying for less weight but
also, perhaps less durability?

hippy

[hippy]

> "thebow" > wrote in message
> > Not sure whether to go lear 8000 or 8500...105 or ultegra?
>
> What's the price difference? Website?

www.learsport.com.au duh! :-P

The 8500 has carbon post and stem and a different frame
with carbon seatstays. It also has the Shimano wheels as
opposed to the more traditional Alex rims and of course
full Ultegra versus 105. $1500 versus $2200

I don't know anything about carbon stays, but a big,
paranoid guy like me worries a bit about carbon
stems and less-so carbon seatposts. :-)

Personally I like the look of the Shimano wheels but
I don't like the low spoke count (big guy paranoia
again) and I don't like the (apparently) $10 spoke
replacement cost. Proprietary gear sucks for
replacement too unless they are really well supported,
but I guess Shimano is.
I don't suppose you can test ride the 105 bike versus
the Ultegra? That would be the deciding point for me,
how the carbon stays handled and how much better
Ultegra felt, if at all.

According to cecilwalker's website the difference in
price between 105 and Ultegra is less than $200, so
I'd be hesitant to pay $700 for the "extras" you are
getting. Seems you are paying for less weight but
also, perhaps less durability?

hippy

[Al User]

thebow wrote:

> ...My plan is to get one, ride the bum of it and it's it's crap after a
> couple of weeks return it and get my money back according to their
> guarantee...

Just be careful of the last lines in the guarantee,
"...we will refund your money or replace the products, *except* in the following cases:...
*3. The products are damaged or worn.*"

Al

[Al User]

thebow wrote:

> ...My plan is to get one, ride the bum of it and it's it's crap after a
> couple of weeks return it and get my money back according to their
> guarantee...

Just be careful of the last lines in the guarantee,
"...we will refund your money or replace the products, *except* in the following cases:...
*3. The products are damaged or worn.*"

Al

[Sigi Goode]

I bought a Lear 7000 a couple of months ago and love it to bits. Yes,
the welds are a bit large, but the bike overall is a joy to ride. Very
smooth.

Incidentally, I bought mine direct from the factory *via eBay*. Got it
cheaper than retail, too.

Sig.


On 1 Oct 2003 13:05:43 +0950, thebow >
wrote:

>M2cycler wrote:
> > yeah they do have a 30 day money back or exchange warranty. i'll see
> > what they say. i don't really want them to have to replace the whole
> > bike though which is what they would have to do if i want 100 percent
> > looking welds. i'm sure the welds are plenty strong, just the aesthetics
> > are a little off. the stem should be no problem to swap.
> > took it for about 50km to bobbin head. performed like a bike should i
> > guess. honestly i can't tell ride difference between it and old chromo
> > bike i.e. it bounces about the same amount. getting used to the sti's,
> > love shifting while standing.
>
>
>
>That is one Bike am considering so definately post more updates.
>
>I think the problem with the welds is that they are a bit obvious is
>all. The bikes look a little rougher than your average cannondale, orbea
>or specialized but they seem to represent good value.
>
>Really I don't see how they could be that bad, they are made of and have
>all the good stuff so they can't be that bad.
>
>I would assume all they need is a little tweaking as they don't really
>put much effort into fitting the bike to you.
>
>My plan is to get one, ride the bum of it and it's it's crap after a
>couple of weeks return it and get my money back according to their
>guarantee.
>
>Not sure whether to go lear 8000 or 8500...105 or ultegra?
>
>
>
>--
>>--------------------------<
>Posted via cyclingforums.com
>http://www.cyclingforums.com

[Sigi Goode]

I bought a Lear 7000 a couple of months ago and love it to bits. Yes,
the welds are a bit large, but the bike overall is a joy to ride. Very
smooth.

Incidentally, I bought mine direct from the factory *via eBay*. Got it
cheaper than retail, too.

Sig.


On 1 Oct 2003 13:05:43 +0950, thebow >
wrote:

>M2cycler wrote:
> > yeah they do have a 30 day money back or exchange warranty. i'll see
> > what they say. i don't really want them to have to replace the whole
> > bike though which is what they would have to do if i want 100 percent
> > looking welds. i'm sure the welds are plenty strong, just the aesthetics
> > are a little off. the stem should be no problem to swap.
> > took it for about 50km to bobbin head. performed like a bike should i
> > guess. honestly i can't tell ride difference between it and old chromo
> > bike i.e. it bounces about the same amount. getting used to the sti's,
> > love shifting while standing.
>
>
>
>That is one Bike am considering so definately post more updates.
>
>I think the problem with the welds is that they are a bit obvious is
>all. The bikes look a little rougher than your average cannondale, orbea
>or specialized but they seem to represent good value.
>
>Really I don't see how they could be that bad, they are made of and have
>all the good stuff so they can't be that bad.
>
>I would assume all they need is a little tweaking as they don't really
>put much effort into fitting the bike to you.
>
>My plan is to get one, ride the bum of it and it's it's crap after a
>couple of weeks return it and get my money back according to their
>guarantee.
>
>Not sure whether to go lear 8000 or 8500...105 or ultegra?
>
>
>
>--
>>--------------------------<
>Posted via cyclingforums.com
>http://www.cyclingforums.com

[Elguapo]

Be very careful if you decide to buy via their web site. They claim to be a
Verisign scured site. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you use
the online order page all your details will be sent plain text. I emailed
them a couple of months ago about this and have had no response and checking
the web site tonight it seems they still have fixed it. DO NOT believe the
blurb about the order form being 100% secure. Very poor practice as far as
I'm concerned. I just hope this sloppiness isn't reflected in their
products.

[Elguapo]

Be very careful if you decide to buy via their web site. They claim to be a
Verisign scured site. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you use
the online order page all your details will be sent plain text. I emailed
them a couple of months ago about this and have had no response and checking
the web site tonight it seems they still have fixed it. DO NOT believe the
blurb about the order form being 100% secure. Very poor practice as far as
I'm concerned. I just hope this sloppiness isn't reflected in their
products.

[Al User]

Elguapo wrote:

> Be very careful if you decide to buy via their web site. They claim to be a
> Verisign scured site. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you use
> the online order page all your details will be sent plain text. I emailed
> them a couple of months ago about this and have had no response and checking
> the web site tonight it seems they still have fixed it. DO NOT believe the
> blurb about the order form being 100% secure. Very poor practice as far as
> I'm concerned. I just hope this sloppiness isn't reflected in their
> products.
>
>

Good point,
If you click to see the details you find

Name WWW.LEARSPORT.COM
Status Expired
Validity Period 04-AUG-00 - 18-AUG-01

Yet they still claim 100% security.
I wonder what VeriSign think about the misuse of the VeriSign seal!

Al.

[Al User]

Elguapo wrote:

> Be very careful if you decide to buy via their web site. They claim to be a
> Verisign scured site. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you use
> the online order page all your details will be sent plain text. I emailed
> them a couple of months ago about this and have had no response and checking
> the web site tonight it seems they still have fixed it. DO NOT believe the
> blurb about the order form being 100% secure. Very poor practice as far as
> I'm concerned. I just hope this sloppiness isn't reflected in their
> products.
>
>

Good point,
If you click to see the details you find

Name WWW.LEARSPORT.COM
Status Expired
Validity Period 04-AUG-00 - 18-AUG-01

Yet they still claim 100% security.
I wonder what VeriSign think about the misuse of the VeriSign seal!

Al.

[thebow]

M2cycler wrote:
> yeah it was a toss up between the ultegra and 105 for me, i didn't think
> it was worth $700 or $500 more. after all ultegra is only about $150
> more than 105 looking at diff websites. definately check the bikes out.
> don't forget this bike is $1500. the allez sport, a tiagra bike, is
> going for $1799 at northside cyclery.
> i live at north ryde
> sorry about the length



Nah, it's all good info I reckon.. I had a chat to them and the guys
in Melbourne would do a 2003 8500 for $1999 which is not bad. And I
assume a similar discount for the 8000 but depends on the amount of
arm twisting.

I did the ebay thing as well and bid $1600 but this was a UK based then
and my confort level was not good. I want to be able to go pick up the
merchanidse and be able to return it if things go bad.

Is there any appriciable difference between the easton and
colombus tubing?



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[thebow]

M2cycler wrote:
> yeah it was a toss up between the ultegra and 105 for me, i didn't think
> it was worth $700 or $500 more. after all ultegra is only about $150
> more than 105 looking at diff websites. definately check the bikes out.
> don't forget this bike is $1500. the allez sport, a tiagra bike, is
> going for $1799 at northside cyclery.
> i live at north ryde
> sorry about the length



Nah, it's all good info I reckon.. I had a chat to them and the guys
in Melbourne would do a 2003 8500 for $1999 which is not bad. And I
assume a similar discount for the 8000 but depends on the amount of
arm twisting.

I did the ebay thing as well and bid $1600 but this was a UK based then
and my confort level was not good. I want to be able to go pick up the
merchanidse and be able to return it if things go bad.

Is there any appriciable difference between the easton and
colombus tubing?



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[thebow]

Hippy wrote:
> > "thebow" > wrote in message
> > > Not sure whether to go lear 8000 or 8500...105 or ultegra?
> >
> > What's the price difference? Website?
> www.learsport.com.au duh! :-P
> The 8500 has carbon post and stem and a different frame with carbon
> seatstays. It also has the Shimano wheels as opposed to the more
> traditional Alex rims and of course full Ultegra versus 105. $1500
> versus $2200
> I don't know anything about carbon stays, but a big, paranoid guy like
> me worries a bit about carbon stems and less-so carbon seatposts. :-)
> Personally I like the look of the Shimano wheels but I don't like the
> low spoke count (big guy paranoia again) and I don't like the
> (apparently) $10 spoke replacement cost. Proprietary gear sucks for
> replacement too unless they are really well supported, but I guess
> Shimano is. I don't suppose you can test ride the 105 bike versus the
> Ultegra? That would be the deciding point for me, how the carbon stays
> handled and how much better Ultegra felt, if at all.
> According to cecilwalker's website the difference in price between 105
> and Ultegra is less than $200, so I'd be hesitant to pay $700 for the
> "extras" you are getting. Seems you are paying for less weight but also,
> perhaps less durability?
> hippy



Price difference is a bit less..the 105 comes with standard 32 spoke
wheels. It is a $200 upgrade to 540 so we're looking at $500 diff at
that stage.

from what I have been reading service/durability of the ultegra
stuff is something like 6000ml/105 -> 10000 - > ultegra so that is a
factor as well.

So the diff is a bit more carbon, more durability from the groupset and
add in a little for wank factor but not much more as it's only a
learsport :-)

I work about 15 mins from the warehouse and test ride bikes are
available so I'll have a crack at them sometime next week and make my
mind up then.

If the ultegra bike feels $700 better then I'll grab it, otherwise go
the 105 bike.

Though my LBS has an ORBEA with campy mirage for $1800 that I may be
able to screw them down a bit for.

He was telling me that groupo is the equivalent of 105 but my internet
research does not bear that out..1 strike against LBS for fibbing even
if it may be a little one...



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[thebow]

Hippy wrote:
> > "thebow" > wrote in message
> > > Not sure whether to go lear 8000 or 8500...105 or ultegra?
> >
> > What's the price difference? Website?
> www.learsport.com.au duh! :-P
> The 8500 has carbon post and stem and a different frame with carbon
> seatstays. It also has the Shimano wheels as opposed to the more
> traditional Alex rims and of course full Ultegra versus 105. $1500
> versus $2200
> I don't know anything about carbon stays, but a big, paranoid guy like
> me worries a bit about carbon stems and less-so carbon seatposts. :-)
> Personally I like the look of the Shimano wheels but I don't like the
> low spoke count (big guy paranoia again) and I don't like the
> (apparently) $10 spoke replacement cost. Proprietary gear sucks for
> replacement too unless they are really well supported, but I guess
> Shimano is. I don't suppose you can test ride the 105 bike versus the
> Ultegra? That would be the deciding point for me, how the carbon stays
> handled and how much better Ultegra felt, if at all.
> According to cecilwalker's website the difference in price between 105
> and Ultegra is less than $200, so I'd be hesitant to pay $700 for the
> "extras" you are getting. Seems you are paying for less weight but also,
> perhaps less durability?
> hippy



Price difference is a bit less..the 105 comes with standard 32 spoke
wheels. It is a $200 upgrade to 540 so we're looking at $500 diff at
that stage.

from what I have been reading service/durability of the ultegra
stuff is something like 6000ml/105 -> 10000 - > ultegra so that is a
factor as well.

So the diff is a bit more carbon, more durability from the groupset and
add in a little for wank factor but not much more as it's only a
learsport :-)

I work about 15 mins from the warehouse and test ride bikes are
available so I'll have a crack at them sometime next week and make my
mind up then.

If the ultegra bike feels $700 better then I'll grab it, otherwise go
the 105 bike.

Though my LBS has an ORBEA with campy mirage for $1800 that I may be
able to screw them down a bit for.

He was telling me that groupo is the equivalent of 105 but my internet
research does not bear that out..1 strike against LBS for fibbing even
if it may be a little one...



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[M2cycler]

thebow wrote:
> Price difference is a bit less..the 105 comes with standard 32 spoke
> wheels. It is a $200 upgrade to 540 so we're looking at $500 diff at
> that stage.
> from what I have been reading service/durability of the ultegra
> stuff is something like 6000ml/105 -> 10000 - > ultegra so that is a
> factor as well.
> So the diff is a bit more carbon, more durability from the groupset and
> add in a little for wank factor but not much more as it's only a
> learsport :-)
> I work about 15 mins from the warehouse and test ride bikes are
> available so I'll have a crack at them sometime next week and make my
> mind up then.
> If the ultegra bike feels $700 better then I'll grab it, otherwise go
> the 105 bike.
> Though my LBS has an ORBEA with campy mirage for $1800 that I may be
> able to screw them down a bit for.
> He was telling me that groupo is the equivalent of 105 but my internet
> research does not bear that out..1 strike against LBS for fibbing even
> if it may be a little one...



yeah it was a toss up between the ultegra and 105 for me, i didn't think
it was worth $700 or $500 more. after all ultegra is only about $150
more than 105 looking at diff websites. definately check the bikes out.

no way is mirage equivelant to 105, more like centaur or veloce. i find
the sti nicer to use than the ergo also. (i hate it when lbs make things
up and u know otherwise but you don't want to embarass them or have them
tell u your wrong).

what i meant about the welds is that it doesnt look that nice, also
there is one 1mm diameter weld splatter or paint blob around where the
top tube is welded to the head tube. if it wasn't right in front of my
face whenever i ride it probably would irk me less. i'm still debating
whether this is a big enough issue to exchange the bike, i've got about
27 days to decide. i went back to the outlet and checked all the stems
and they all were angled to some degree i think i can live with it.
after adjusting it a bit, it is decent enough.

overall if it wasn't for the splatter and slightly bent stem i would be
very happy. forgetting that, it is a great bike and i like it more and
more, i'm also starting to like the paint job.

don't forget this bike is $1500. the allez sport, a tiagra bike, is
going for $1799 at northside cyclery.

i live at north ryde

sorry about the length



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[M2cycler]

thebow wrote:
> Price difference is a bit less..the 105 comes with standard 32 spoke
> wheels. It is a $200 upgrade to 540 so we're looking at $500 diff at
> that stage.
> from what I have been reading service/durability of the ultegra
> stuff is something like 6000ml/105 -> 10000 - > ultegra so that is a
> factor as well.
> So the diff is a bit more carbon, more durability from the groupset and
> add in a little for wank factor but not much more as it's only a
> learsport :-)
> I work about 15 mins from the warehouse and test ride bikes are
> available so I'll have a crack at them sometime next week and make my
> mind up then.
> If the ultegra bike feels $700 better then I'll grab it, otherwise go
> the 105 bike.
> Though my LBS has an ORBEA with campy mirage for $1800 that I may be
> able to screw them down a bit for.
> He was telling me that groupo is the equivalent of 105 but my internet
> research does not bear that out..1 strike against LBS for fibbing even
> if it may be a little one...



yeah it was a toss up between the ultegra and 105 for me, i didn't think
it was worth $700 or $500 more. after all ultegra is only about $150
more than 105 looking at diff websites. definately check the bikes out.

no way is mirage equivelant to 105, more like centaur or veloce. i find
the sti nicer to use than the ergo also. (i hate it when lbs make things
up and u know otherwise but you don't want to embarass them or have them
tell u your wrong).

what i meant about the welds is that it doesnt look that nice, also
there is one 1mm diameter weld splatter or paint blob around where the
top tube is welded to the head tube. if it wasn't right in front of my
face whenever i ride it probably would irk me less. i'm still debating
whether this is a big enough issue to exchange the bike, i've got about
27 days to decide. i went back to the outlet and checked all the stems
and they all were angled to some degree i think i can live with it.
after adjusting it a bit, it is decent enough.

overall if it wasn't for the splatter and slightly bent stem i would be
very happy. forgetting that, it is a great bike and i like it more and
more, i'm also starting to like the paint job.

don't forget this bike is $1500. the allez sport, a tiagra bike, is
going for $1799 at northside cyclery.

i live at north ryde

sorry about the length



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[SteveDel]

Al User wrote:
> Elguapo wrote:
> > Be very careful if you decide to buy via their web site. They claim to
> > be a Verisign scured site. Nothing could be further from the truth. If
> > you use the online order page all your details will be sent plain
> > text. I emailed them a couple of months ago about this and have had no
> > response and checking the web site tonight it seems they still have
> > fixed it. DO NOT believe the blurb about the order form being 100%
> > secure. Very poor practice as far as I'm concerned. I just hope this
> > sloppiness isn't reflected in their products.
> >
> >
> Good point, If you click to see the details you find
> Name WWW.LEARSPORT.COM Status Expired Validity Period 04-AUG-00 -
> 18-AUG-01
> Yet they still claim 100% security. I wonder what VeriSign think about
> the misuse of the VeriSign seal!
> Al.

I actually emailed Verisign yesterday to ask them what they thought of
this practice. Will let you all know.

SteveD





--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[SteveDel]

Al User wrote:
> Elguapo wrote:
> > Be very careful if you decide to buy via their web site. They claim to
> > be a Verisign scured site. Nothing could be further from the truth. If
> > you use the online order page all your details will be sent plain
> > text. I emailed them a couple of months ago about this and have had no
> > response and checking the web site tonight it seems they still have
> > fixed it. DO NOT believe the blurb about the order form being 100%
> > secure. Very poor practice as far as I'm concerned. I just hope this
> > sloppiness isn't reflected in their products.
> >
> >
> Good point, If you click to see the details you find
> Name WWW.LEARSPORT.COM Status Expired Validity Period 04-AUG-00 -
> 18-AUG-01
> Yet they still claim 100% security. I wonder what VeriSign think about
> the misuse of the VeriSign seal!
> Al.

I actually emailed Verisign yesterday to ask them what they thought of
this practice. Will let you all know.

SteveD





--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[thebow]

Al User wrote:
> thebow wrote:
> > ...My plan is to get one, ride the bum of it and it's it's crap after
> > a couple of weeks return it and get my money back according to their
> > guarantee...
> Just be careful of the last lines in the guarantee, "...we will refund
> your money or replace the products, *except* in the following cases:...
> *3. The products are damaged or worn.*"
> Al



Oh I went and had a test ride..good stuff, I like the feel of both bikes
and since I couldn't tell the diff between ultegra and 105 I'll go the
cheaper one.

The 8500 is noticeably lighter however enough though the website says
they are the same.

The salesguy said that you can ride the bike for 29 days if you like and
they will still refund/replace. They are onl going to have issues if it
has gone down the road.

I'll probably be looking at getting a Lear8000 sometime next week.



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[thebow]

Al User wrote:
> thebow wrote:
> > ...My plan is to get one, ride the bum of it and it's it's crap after
> > a couple of weeks return it and get my money back according to their
> > guarantee...
> Just be careful of the last lines in the guarantee, "...we will refund
> your money or replace the products, *except* in the following cases:...
> *3. The products are damaged or worn.*"
> Al



Oh I went and had a test ride..good stuff, I like the feel of both bikes
and since I couldn't tell the diff between ultegra and 105 I'll go the
cheaper one.

The 8500 is noticeably lighter however enough though the website says
they are the same.

The salesguy said that you can ride the bike for 29 days if you like and
they will still refund/replace. They are onl going to have issues if it
has gone down the road.

I'll probably be looking at getting a Lear8000 sometime next week.



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[M2cycler]

after using the bike quite alot i've realised i need the next size down.
from the med to the small. luckily for me they have that 30 day thing
and i didn't crash it.

the top tube length of the small is 54.5cm approx. this is more
equivelant to the avg 54 cm bike which is what i should fit. the
medium's top tube length is 56.5, this is a little stretched out for me.

the site lists my size as having a tt of 55cm. while this is true along
the slope of the tube. the horizontal measurement is 56.5.

problems i am anticipating are a lack of seat post extension and
possibly a low handlebar (the head tube is about 4 cm shorter i think.
the table on the website isnt accurate with respect to headtube lengths,
for instance the med is 175 and is listed as 135).

hopefully i can do the exchange tomorrow which is tuesday.

while on a bunch ride the other day i noticed that an avanti kona from a
few seasons ago had what appeared to be exactly the same frame as the
leasport. could it be that learsport bought up surplus or seconds avanti
frames. i've been entertaining this thought for a while. checking the
avanti website i can't get info from prev years geometry. does anyone
have thoughts on this. i know avanti have used and use columbus tubing.
This is all becoming very intriguing.

incidently, i prefer that old avanti design better than the current pro
road geometry they have now.



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[M2cycler]

after using the bike quite alot i've realised i need the next size down.
from the med to the small. luckily for me they have that 30 day thing
and i didn't crash it.

the top tube length of the small is 54.5cm approx. this is more
equivelant to the avg 54 cm bike which is what i should fit. the
medium's top tube length is 56.5, this is a little stretched out for me.

the site lists my size as having a tt of 55cm. while this is true along
the slope of the tube. the horizontal measurement is 56.5.

problems i am anticipating are a lack of seat post extension and
possibly a low handlebar (the head tube is about 4 cm shorter i think.
the table on the website isnt accurate with respect to headtube lengths,
for instance the med is 175 and is listed as 135).

hopefully i can do the exchange tomorrow which is tuesday.

while on a bunch ride the other day i noticed that an avanti kona from a
few seasons ago had what appeared to be exactly the same frame as the
leasport. could it be that learsport bought up surplus or seconds avanti
frames. i've been entertaining this thought for a while. checking the
avanti website i can't get info from prev years geometry. does anyone
have thoughts on this. i know avanti have used and use columbus tubing.
This is all becoming very intriguing.

incidently, i prefer that old avanti design better than the current pro
road geometry they have now.



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[M2cycler]

no one seems interested in this thread anymore, but i'll keep
posting anyway.

changed the bike today to the small, no questions asked. it feels much
better. i was wrong in stating they don't have alternative sized stems
and seatposts. i asked the mechanic and he nicely got me the sizes
requested. once again, great people.

as u can imagine, my bike is now all seatpost. i don't mind though.



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
http://www.cyclingforums.com

[M2cycler]

no one seems interested in this thread anymore, but i'll keep
posting anyway.

changed the bike today to the small, no questions asked. it feels much
better. i was wrong in stating they don't have alternative sized stems
and seatposts. i asked the mechanic and he nicely got me the sizes
requested. once again, great people.

as u can imagine, my bike is now all seatpost. i don't mind though.



--
>--------------------------<
Posted via cyclingforums.com
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[thebow]

M2cycler wrote:
> no one seems interested in this thread anymore, but i'll keep
> posting anyway.
> changed the bike today to the small, no questions asked. it feels much
> better. i was wrong in stating they don't have alternative sized stems
> and seatposts. i asked the mechanic and he nicely got me the sizes
> requested. once again, great people.
> as u can imagine, my bike is now all seatpost. i don't mind though.



No,

I am still interested at least.. The learsports are still an option for
me as well. I am going to ask the LBS to give me some timeframes.

If they aren't forthcoming then it'll be a lear 8000 for me assuming you
seem to be quite happy with yours. Did you manage to get extra $$$ off
or was the bike $1699 with 540's?



--
>--------------------------<
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[thebow]

M2cycler wrote:
> no one seems interested in this thread anymore, but i'll keep
> posting anyway.
> changed the bike today to the small, no questions asked. it feels much
> better. i was wrong in stating they don't have alternative sized stems
> and seatposts. i asked the mechanic and he nicely got me the sizes
> requested. once again, great people.
> as u can imagine, my bike is now all seatpost. i don't mind though.



No,

I am still interested at least.. The learsports are still an option for
me as well. I am going to ask the LBS to give me some timeframes.

If they aren't forthcoming then it'll be a lear 8000 for me assuming you
seem to be quite happy with yours. Did you manage to get extra $$$ off
or was the bike $1699 with 540's?



--
>--------------------------<
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[Cletus75]

thebow wrote:
> No,
> I am still interested at least.. The learsports are still an option for
> me as well. I am going to ask the LBS to give me some timeframes.
> If they aren't forthcoming then it'll be a lear 8000 for me assuming you
> seem to be quite happy with yours. Did you manage to get extra $$$ off
> or was the bike $1699 with 540's?



I'm still following too. I've got the *.pdf of Avanti's 2003 geometries
if you're interested - or did you want further back?



--
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[Cletus75]

thebow wrote:
> No,
> I am still interested at least.. The learsports are still an option for
> me as well. I am going to ask the LBS to give me some timeframes.
> If they aren't forthcoming then it'll be a lear 8000 for me assuming you
> seem to be quite happy with yours. Did you manage to get extra $$$ off
> or was the bike $1699 with 540's?



I'm still following too. I've got the *.pdf of Avanti's 2003 geometries
if you're interested - or did you want further back?



--
>--------------------------<
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[M2cycler]

Cletus75 wrote:
> I'm still following too. I've got the *.pdf of Avanti's 2003 geometries
> if you're interested - or did you want further back?



i was thinking 2001 or 2002. thanks anyway.

i paid $1500 for the 8000 with the standard wheelset. it used to be
$1600 but they lowered the price.

since i use the bike on rough roads i didn't think it would be wise to
spend more money on what looks like a less durable wheel. besides, i
find the 105 hubs and rl2002 rims work great.

i got a stem with more rise so the hb wasn't too low. it doesn't look as
good as having the stem parrallel with the top tube though.



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[M2cycler]

Cletus75 wrote:
> I'm still following too. I've got the *.pdf of Avanti's 2003 geometries
> if you're interested - or did you want further back?



i was thinking 2001 or 2002. thanks anyway.

i paid $1500 for the 8000 with the standard wheelset. it used to be
$1600 but they lowered the price.

since i use the bike on rough roads i didn't think it would be wise to
spend more money on what looks like a less durable wheel. besides, i
find the 105 hubs and rl2002 rims work great.

i got a stem with more rise so the hb wasn't too low. it doesn't look as
good as having the stem parrallel with the top tube though.



--
>--------------------------<
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[thebow]

M2cycler wrote:
> i was thinking 2001 or 2002. thanks anyway.
> i paid $1500 for the 8000 with the standard wheelset. it used to be
> $1600 but they lowered the price.
> since i use the bike on rough roads i didn't think it would be wise to
> spend more money on what looks like a less durable wheel. besides, i
> find the 105 hubs and rl2002 rims work great.



No further discounts then but it's still a "cheap" bike anyway.

From an earlier post it seems that the 540's are pretty durable with
people logging quite a bit of distance on them without worries.

I guess it depends on your wieght and the size of the potholes though..



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[thebow]

M2cycler wrote:
> i was thinking 2001 or 2002. thanks anyway.
> i paid $1500 for the 8000 with the standard wheelset. it used to be
> $1600 but they lowered the price.
> since i use the bike on rough roads i didn't think it would be wise to
> spend more money on what looks like a less durable wheel. besides, i
> find the 105 hubs and rl2002 rims work great.



No further discounts then but it's still a "cheap" bike anyway.

From an earlier post it seems that the 540's are pretty durable with
people logging quite a bit of distance on them without worries.

I guess it depends on your wieght and the size of the potholes though..



--
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[M2cycler]

swapped the stem again, boy are they getting sick of me :P.

hopefully now i'll be content, no more buyers remorse creeping around.

i clocked a pr on my commute. second commute on new bike, first time
with speedo rigged.

i can definately tell its lighter up climbs and the easily reached
gear changing makes everything so good. now when flying downhill i
can concentrate on the road in front of me instead of reaching for
the downtube.

hew thebow, did u get a new bike yet. when u do, tell us what u got



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[M2cycler]

swapped the stem again, boy are they getting sick of me :P.

hopefully now i'll be content, no more buyers remorse creeping around.

i clocked a pr on my commute. second commute on new bike, first time
with speedo rigged.

i can definately tell its lighter up climbs and the easily reached
gear changing makes everything so good. now when flying downhill i
can concentrate on the road in front of me instead of reaching for
the downtube.

hew thebow, did u get a new bike yet. when u do, tell us what u got



--
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[thebow]

M2cycler wrote:
> swapped the stem again, boy are they getting sick of me :P.
> hopefully now i'll be content, no more buyers remorse creeping around.
> i clocked a pr on my commute. second commute on new bike, first time
> with speedo rigged.
> i can definately tell its lighter up climbs and the easily reached
> gear changing makes everything so good. now when flying downhill i
> can concentrate on the road in front of me instead of reaching for
> the downtube.
> hew thebow, did u get a new bike yet. when u do, tell us what u got



Bike is on hold for the short term :-( My dog did a cruciate ligament
and is going to need an operation. Funny thing is it's exactly the
amount I was going to spend on a new road bike, life's funny like
that isn't it?

So next year is going to be the time I guess unless my finances start
swinging more inthe way of incoming that outgoing.



--
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[thebow]

M2cycler wrote:
> swapped the stem again, boy are they getting sick of me :P.
> hopefully now i'll be content, no more buyers remorse creeping around.
> i clocked a pr on my commute. second commute on new bike, first time
> with speedo rigged.
> i can definately tell its lighter up climbs and the easily reached
> gear changing makes everything so good. now when flying downhill i
> can concentrate on the road in front of me instead of reaching for
> the downtube.
> hew thebow, did u get a new bike yet. when u do, tell us what u got



Bike is on hold for the short term :-( My dog did a cruciate ligament
and is going to need an operation. Funny thing is it's exactly the
amount I was going to spend on a new road bike, life's funny like
that isn't it?

So next year is going to be the time I guess unless my finances start
swinging more inthe way of incoming that outgoing.



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[Mossy1976]

I'm tossing up between a Learsport 8000, 8500 or Avanti Kona (2004
model). Have been following this thread with much interest. Any further
thoughts/comments on the merit of Learsport and their medium to long
term reliability? Given I'm currently on a pretty ordinary bike that's a
few years old (and heavy) a Learsport would be a definite improvement.



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[thebow]

Mossy1976 wrote:
> I'm tossing up between a Learsport 8000, 8500 or Avanti Kona (2004
> model). Have been following this thread with much interest. Any further
> thoughts/comments on the merit of Learsport and their medium to long
> term reliability? Given I'm currently on a pretty ordinary bike that's a
> few years old (and heavy) a Learsport would be a definite improvement.



Well after a lot of looking around I just put a deposit on a leearsport
8000 with 540 wheelset. I haven't been able to get anything close to
that spec at any LBS in Sydney.

A few people on the forums have them and like them,.if you're not a
campy/euro snob then I think they provide a well specced bike for
the price.

Oh and they have that 30 day guarantee thing so if you purchase and
don't like it you can upgrade/swap or get a refund.

If you can hold of for a week or so I'll post my review once I have
ridden it for a while.



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[Elguapo]

I hope you didn't buy on line. earlier in this thread I mentioned how their
site claimed it was SSL secured but actually wasn't. They had a "secured by
Verisign" logo on their web site and all. I spoke with Verisign as did one
or two others I suspect from Verisigns reaction and they have now removed
the Verisign logo from the learsport site. How ever at the top of the order
form they still claim the order page is secure. It is not!! Do not submit
your details on this page. To be quite honest I'd have to question why you
would want to do business with a company that is misleading consumers the
way it is on it's web site.

"thebow" > wrote in message
...
> Mossy1976 wrote:
> > I'm tossing up between a Learsport 8000, 8500 or Avanti Kona (2004
> > model). Have been following this thread with much interest. Any
further
> > thoughts/comments on the merit of Learsport and their medium to long
> > term reliability? Given I'm currently on a pretty ordinary bike that's
a
> > few years old (and heavy) a Learsport would be a definite improvement.
>
>
>
> Well after a lot of looking around I just put a deposit on a leearsport
> 8000 with 540 wheelset. I haven't been able to get anything close to
> that spec at any LBS in Sydney.
>
> A few people on the forums have them and like them,.if you're not a
> campy/euro snob then I think they provide a well specced bike for
> the price.
>
> Oh and they have that 30 day guarantee thing so if you purchase and
> don't like it you can upgrade/swap or get a refund.
>
> If you can hold of for a week or so I'll post my review once I have
> ridden it for a while.
>
>
>
> --
> >--------------------------<
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[Mossy1976]

How's the Learsport treating you, or is it to early to make an
informed call?



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[thebow]

Mossy1976 wrote:
> How's the Learsport treating you, or is it to early to make an
> informed call?



Had a touch of the flu so haven't done any long rides yet.

But from the short rides I have and a few tweaks I'm very
impressed with it.

!) It looks great in red/black with the 540 wheels.
2)got the same components as everything else.
3)Nice and light
4)Very comfortable after a bit of tweaking.

All in all I would not hesitate to reccomend it.

Really if you were to takre the plaunge do what I am doing..get it ride
it for a few weeks and if you're not happy return it for a refund.

I however won't be returning it at this stage as I'm really happy with
it.



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[M2cycler]

glad to hear you got your bike after all the trials and
tribulations thebow.

my bike is still going strong after ~1500 km, you can get a look at it
in the, "show me ur bike and i'll show u mine," thread.

only thing is a slight creaking noise. i'm not sure where it is
coming from but my thinking is that the crank is coming a bit loose.
also needed to adjust the rear and front derailer. this is easily
done following the instruction sheet. (taking it too the outlet for
service is very difficult as i have no other transport. also, they
are very busy.)

only gripe is when i picked up someones tcr 2. it was slightly lighter.
on the other hand i have the alex and 105 hub wheels, and they are
relatively heavy.

I was hoping i would take a little more care of this bike but it has
ended up being my everyday bike now. so far it has stood up to the test.



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