Campy Record

Campy Record
Which bike should be my realistic "dream bike"?

I've lost 80 lbs biking the last 3 years on a Specialized Allez Sport and then an Allez Comp. The prices have gone from $600 to $1300 and I'm ready to buy my dream bike. The two I've been eyeing are the Orbea Orca and the Cervelo Soloist Carbon (Ultegra gruppo for both, sorry I can't justify the extra $1k for Dura-Ace or $2k for Campy Record).

If you've had any experience with either bike, which would you prefer? I'm not trying to compete, just some regular road biking with moderate hills and lots of flats. Also, where would be the best place to purchase either bike?

The Orca and Cervelo are solid choices. Be aware that these are engineered to be race bikes and it would be best if you make the purchase only after you actually try them both and get properly fitted by the dealer.

I've ridden the Orbea Onix with Campagnolo Centaur (one model below the Orca in 2005) quite a bit and it is just about perfect. Very solid, very light (16.4 lbs for a $2400 bike is unheard of), very stable handling, climbs like a dream, very comfortable and had great parts selection.

Cervelo Soloist Carbon I understand is pure race bike. Super light, responds right now, handles like a sports car (meaning instant response so just be mindful of what you are doing on the bike), super strong, comfy and a ground rocket. FYI, Cervelo also had a recall on some bikes and have been having supply problems were customers have been waiting several months for their frames. That said, Cervelos are rarer.

A word on Ultegra. It is an awesome gruppo, especially if you factor in $$$, but if you are going to get a dream bike, why not Campagnolo Chorus. I made the switch and am much happier. My bike doesn't suffer from not being able to shift during the winter months, chain rub, creaking bottom bracket, noisy chainring bolts and rattling STI levers.

I also saw a club member riding an Orca with SRAM Force, awesome looking bike.

Bianchi EL with Campagnolo Record inc. Delta Brakes